ChiSox59

Interesting. I don't think Machado gets that long of a deal though. Some execs since the WS have been quoted as saying they think Machado lands more in 6-7 years $33M AAV range ($230M range). Some of that certainly may be posturing, but I ultimately think some the guesstimates around here are on the high end. I guess we'll see.

Lol, you're funny. You brought up the ban bet. In no way shape or form is non-tendering Jose the right decision. And the Sox have plenty of money to pay Machado or Harper with Jose. The two are completely different and unrelated situations.

Crickets from Ron....

Most definitely. Even so, willing to listen to his "terms and conditions".

What are your terms and conditions then, Ron?

I'd non tender Avi, and have said that multiple times on here. Abreu is a no-brainer to tender, and he will most certainly be on the roster next season unless someone offers a nice prospect in return, which I doubt will happen. Jose is worth what he gets paid, so not much surplus value there. But he's not blocking anyone of note, is a great teammate and good stick. He'll be on the team.

Lol, sure. If you think the Sox are going to non-tender Jose, I don't know what to tell you.

There is zero conundrum with Jose. He'll be tendered on contract and he'll be on the 2019 roster.

No. The Sox have plenty of money to sign either Harper or Machado, plus other 2nd tier FA. They have virtually nothing committed long term. At some point, when the time is right (whether that is now or a couple season down the road), the Sox will again above average in the payroll.

Correct

Because it’s the first day of free agency and there is nothing else to talk about.

The Sox have been super reluctant to move meaningful pieces around, so I kind of doubt we see that happen. But I totally agree. Positional flexibility is something the good teams have been doing in recent years. It helps solve log jams, work around injuries and get players at bats. It makes a ton of sense. I don't see Ricky as someone who is willing to implement that with key players though.

Engel will be back regardless. At worst, he's the 4th OF.

Yep, totally agree.

I'd love to give Rondon a chance. That's one benefit of moving Moncada now. But realistically, you don't move a guy like Moncada to give a guy like Rondon a chance. You'd moreso be doing it for Madrigal down the line. I just think Rondon has a chance to be something. His power last season was no joke. One benefit to Rondon, is he does have an option left so he can start the year in AAA.

Sox also added Kopech back to 40 man, which now sits at 34. Only super easy fat left to trim is Tilson and Gomez. Guys that may be on chopping block but harder decisions: Leury, Avi, Delmonico, Cordell, Minaya, Clarkin and Covey. By my count the 34 does not include Gonzalez or Santiago, both FA.

I know you live in Boston or whatever, but man, all your posts are about the Red Sox. Like every single one.

As expected.

Watch the Sox shock the world and sign both Machado and Harper. Wouldn't that be sumthin'...

Exactly, and i think the dodgers are a long shot. They already have plenty of infielders with Seager back next season. It's really Phillies, Yanks or White Sox.

Not to interrupt in dick measuring contest but.... I'm keeping Moncada at 2B at least for 2019. CF is intriguing, and I wouldn't hate them at least letting him get some PT out there assuming the Sox don't go out and sign AJ Pollock, but Moncada is still my primary 2B heading into next season. Madrigal at the very least is one full season away, so I am not messing with Moncada more than just perhaps adding some positional versatility (which I really wish the Sox did more often) in 2019.

I'd take Ozzie over Ricky any day of the week.

Who cares?

Several people have suggested that LaMarre should be in the Sox plans next season, yes.

To answer my own question, Scahill and LaMarre. So there goes a bunch of poster's theories that Ryan LaMarre was actually a thing and would be retained.