OK Sox fans, last column I broke down some possible ideas for the Red Sox infield situation next year. I think we can all agree that this team does not need an overhaul but more of a tune up. Barring anything huge coming into Theo’s lap, we’re not going to see much of a change, where that change might happen could be the outfield. Even if the front office wanted to make a huge move, there is really no way for them to do that without moving multiple parts, and so far indications are that they are looking to keep the core of the team intact. David Otiz himself thinks the Sox need more pop, he just doesn’t know where that player is going to play. Well Sox fans here is my bet — he’s going to play the outfield. Its the easiest position to upgrade without re-doing the core of the offense. The infield is filled with young players with MVP and gold glove potential but the outfield is nothing special.

Starting in right is the much maligned and often injured JD Drew. He’s been great for the Sox in the post season and last year when Ortiz went down, he had a stretch when he looked like he was going to be an MVP candidate, and we all know what happened – he got hurt. What Sox fan did not see that coming? I’m not sure who the Sox can get to take him, but rest assured Theo is making calls. In center we have the phenom Jacoby Ellsbury. Jacoby quickly became a fan favorite and helped the Sox win the World Seriesin ‘07. This year was a step back. He’s taking too many bad swings and hitting the ball in the air too much. It’s not that a .280 average with 50 steals is not a good first year for a player, but inside the Sox offices, his work ethic and conditioning / dedication are being questioned. He’s gone from an untouchable cornerstone of the franchise to someone the Sox will take calls for with the right offer. The Sox are not giving up on him, but if he makes it though this next season you can be assured they are looking for more from him. Jason Bay was a great addition and a breath of fresh air last July, but is he the next great Sox left fielder? Does a .280 average with 25 HR excite you? Do you think it excites the front office? Bay is a VERY good player, and lots of teams would be happy to have him. I have nothing but good things to say about him and his skill level. Playing in Fenway might even produce results better then I expect, BUT if we’re going to upgrade our offense, we need to look somewhere. Bay is young, skilled and has an affordable contract for next year – that makes him good for trading. If we assume Coco is gone via trade then we’re going to need a new fourth outfielder. Don’t be surprised if you hear the names Rocco and Griffey Jr coming out of Sox officials mouths over the next month. Griffey is a bit of a long shot, but he does want to play and would be accepting of a decreased roll. If his flight to Seattle is not already booked, he might be just what the Sox need. Rocco is a better fit for sure but, I just don’t see him going for just the 1.5M the Sox seem to think he will command. I’d expect a two year deal for maybe 5M being the cost to lock him up. I’m not sure I see the Sox heading into next season without an outfielder they can count on to hit over .300, or one that will hit over 30 HR…do you?

Enjoy the hot stove, just don’t get too close Sox fans!

Sox Dirt Dog.