Reasons to let Beckett reach free agency

There has been a lot of talk this offseason of how Josh Beckett will approach 2010 with John Lackey signed for the next five years. Will he be pissed or determined? We can't know, but while Curt Schilling is feeling free to share his opinion again I'll give my reason why he's wrong and Beckett will be a free agent after 2010. The first reason we already discussed a bit, but there are plenty of questions about Beckett's health. I discussed this on Fireside chat #68, but the central point is Beckett has injury history that can be very concerning. While many will say what about Lackey's history I also discussed that in the podcast. He has an injury that is less severe and from his velocity and movement looked better with rest. Beckett was able to top 200 IP for just the third time in his carer this year, but the last month was rough and might have been better served with a bit of rest. His back was a problem and could be seen in his lower velocity and some movement problems. This is no time to sign a pitcher and you should definitely wait to see how he does in 2010.