Looks like it’s official. J.D. Drew has signed with the Red Sox for 4 years and 56 million, with a fifth year option, likely to be finalized soon. This means a couple things:
1) The deal could either be considered a bust by those fearful of Drew’s style fitting in with Boston and his lengthy injury history, or considered a steal in this free agent market. With Pierre and Matthews getting in the range of 50M, a guy with an OPS higher than A-Rod the last 3 years for 56 is decent.
2) The chances of a Manny trade skyrocketed. Theo would love to play Pena in left full-time and let him start. Drew could be moved to the 3rd hole, Ortiz cleanup and Pena 5th for 2007.
3) Many people will compare this to the Johnny Damon contract. Bottom line: Drew is the better player. Let’s hope this works out.
More tomorrow.
