Thursday Links: Hamels wants out of Philly, Sox ear’s perk up

Photo credit: Kelly O’Connor

Another uneventful day on at Fort Myers has come and gone…

• The writing was already on the wall, Phillies ace Cole Hamels just read it aloud. The veteran southpaw acknowledged the uphill climb that faces Philadelphia this season, and didn’t shy away from a possible trade. Hamels, who’s current no trade clause features the Red Sox among others, admitted that he would accept a trade to Boston if one were presented to him. (Cole Hamels open to being traded, would be “all ears” in considering Red Sox)

• Red Sox manager John Farrell has spent two very different seasons at the helm in Boston. From worst-to-first and back to worst again, the 2015 season will mark the final year on the 52-year old current contract. But despite a last place finish in the AL East in 2014, the Red Sox front office wants to keep Farrell in the drivers seat in Boston. (Red Sox, John Farrell talking contract extension)

• Shane Victorino is a man on a mission this season. After missing the bulk of the 2014 season with leg and back injuries, the 34-year old is poised to retake his job in the Red Sox outfield in the new year. While Boston would certainly benefit from a healthy Victorino, he’ll need to play well enough to leap frog Mookie Betts on the teams depth chart in order to assume his position. (Meet the most motivated spring training arrival of all time, Shane Victorino)

• A this time last season, Craig Breslow was still recovering from the workload of the Red Sox 2013 World Series run. Instead of tossing bullpens or live batting practice like the other pitchers, the left-hander was limited to only playing catch. Subsequently, Breslow spent the 2014 season playing catch-up, and was hammered on the mound because of it. Now with a full offseason of rest and a new 1-year deal with the Red Sox, Breslow can ease his way back into his regular routine. (Craig Breslow happy to be a regular guy this spring)

• Tweet of the day: Panda Power