Tuesday Links: Panda, Hanley meet Red Sox Nation

After agreeing to terms with the Red Sox over the weekend, Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez were introduced to Red Sox Nation on Tuesday. In the first of two separate press conferences, Ben Cherington introduced Sandoval, and presented him with a white, number 48, Red Sox home jersey. Sandoval then spoke of his decision to leave San Francisco, citing his desire to undertake a “new challenge” with the Red Sox in the American League East. When asked about the possibility of DH’ing, Sandoval remained devoted to third base, hoping to “prove himself” to the Fenway Faithful. Sandoval went on to express his excitement to join a line-up featuring both David Ortiz and Hanley Ramirez, calling Boston’s new-look middle of the order “The Three Amigos”. Shortly there after, Red Sox Nation was introduced — or reintroduced — to Hanley Ramirez. Like Sandoval, Ramirez was presented with a white, number 13, Red Sox home jersey. The 30-year old said that although he’s never played a game in the outfield, he was confident in his ability to transition to left field per the Red Sox request. Ramirez’ also touched upon his excitement to play with David Ortiz, a player he described as “a big brother” to him. It should also be noted that upon hitting free agency it was Ramirez who reached out to the Red Sox, expressing his desire to return to the place Ramirez considers “home”.

• Despite recent twitter reports suggesting that the Red Sox were close to a deal with free agent starter Jon Lester, the left-hander’s agent denied that the starter had made a decision. The report stated that Boston had extended three different offers to the 30-year old, and set a “take-it-or-leave-it” deadline for this Wednesday. While neither negotiating tactic is unheard of, Lester’s agent Seth Levinson deemed the reports “inaccurate”, and reiterated Lester’s desire to explore all of his options. (Jon Lester, Red Sox continue to talk, no deadline set)

• For the first time since 2011, Boston’s front office has displayed a willingness to commit money and years to top tier free agents. However, while some have already deemed this offseason as a 2011 deja vu, the Red Sox are operating under a particularly different set of circumstances. (How big-money signings of Ramirez, Sandoval fit with Boston’s long-range plans)

• With Hanley Ramirez set to join an already large group of Red Sox outfielders, most assumed that Boston would use their depth in order to acquire a starting pitcher. Out of the handful of trade candidates, Yoenis Cespedes seemed like the most logical outfielder to be dealt. However, Red Sox manager John Farrell recently spoke with the 30-year old outfielder to discuss his future position with the team. (John Farrell: Yoenis Cespedes could play center field)

• If the Red Sox are unable to strike a reunion with free agent starter Jon Lester, the team will need to strongly consider moving their focus to the trade market. Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels seems like a logical fit in Boston, and appears to be the Red Sox fall back option if Lester bolts. However, Boston’s unwillingness to meet Philadelphia’s asking price will be the biggest hurdle in any potential trade discussions. (Cole Hamels trade the back up plan if Red Sox miss out on Jon Lester)

• David Price in a Red Sox uniform? Speculation suggests that the two sides could meet up nicely on a deal. The Red Sox have some bats to spare, and the Tigers could look to move Price as he enters his free agent season. Obviously a pitcher the caliber of Price would cost more than just a big bat like Yoenis Cespedes. But the Red Sox could afford to offer a wide array of players, including young, cost controlled assets. (Tigers, Red Sox look like perfect trade partner)

• Tweet of the day: The Three Amigos