Tuesday Links

Brandon Workman has come to save us from pitching hell!

The Red Sox and Orioles met for the third time this spring on Monday, but rain canceled the game after just 2 uneventful innings. With just 5 spring training games left until opening day, Boston is set to face the Rays on Tuesday.

• David Ortiz’s contract extension is a win-win for everybody involved. Ortiz is happy to get security, the team is happy to retain a power threat, and the front office is happy to keep Ortiz in Boston for(what should be) the remained of his career. (David Ortiz: “This is the place I want to be”)

• Like his predecessor, Theo Epstein, Ben Cherington is usually tight lipped about contract negotiations. But on Monday he shed some light on a potential Jon Lester extension, which leads some to believe an agreement is imminent. (Ben Cherington: Red Sox want to resolve Jon Lester contract talks before Opening Day)

• Craig Breslow saw his first in-game action of the spring, but is still viewed as a “long shot” to make the opening day roster. The valuable left hander was a big part of Boston’s bullpen during the post season and hasn’t been able to fully recover from the workload. (Breslow pitches in a minor-league game)

• Entering the home stretch of spring training is when roster projections start to gain merit. Lately, it looks like Jackie Bradley will start the year in AAA, Brandon Workman will slide into Breslow’s bullpen spot, and Grady Sizemore will start in center field. (Projecting the Red Sox roster, version 2.5)

• David Ortiz has etched himself a career that rivals some of Boston’s most beloved Red Sox. But when all is said and done, where will the designated hitter’s career rank among his fellow Boston greats. (Where does David Ortiz 13 year run in Boston rank among all-time Red Sox greats)

• This offseason and spring, we’ve done a lot of evaluating of the Red Sox roster, but with Opening Day just around the corner it’s time to see how Boston stacks up against their AL East foes. (AL East preview: Optimism, pessimism, realism)

• Throughout A.J. Pierzynski’s career, he’s become known as one of the leagues most intimidating players. Now on his third team in as many seasons, the catchers new teammates are happy to have intimidation on their side. (Red Sox teammates embrace notorious villain AJ Pierzynski)

• Tweet of the day: Classic Peavy.