CRYPTIC, But Nice!

From SI today, and then me........

BOSTON (AP) -- The Red Sox aren't waiting until they get to Florida next week to start plugging the holes in their roster.
"We might have something done before the winter meetings with one free agent," general manager Theo Epstein said.
Although Epstein declined to identify the player, the Red Sox are known to be pursuing former Dodgers outfielder J.D. Drew. Drew's agent, Scott Boras, has said he expects to wrap up negotiations for a deal by the end of the week.
Boston again is expected to be one of the more active teams when the meetings start in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., on Monday. The Red Sox are shopping outfielder Manny Ramirez, and they are also negotiating with Boras for Japanese star Daisuke Matsuzaka; Boston already bid $51,111,111 for the right to negotiate with Matsuzaka.
"We have made an offer. I don't want to go too much more into it," Epstein said. "It is important to maintain a quiet and calm environment, if possible. That's to the benefit of both parties."
Epstein also sidestepped questions on Ramirez, but the GM did say the team's biggest hole as he approached the meetings was the bullpen. Jonathan Papelbon, who saved 35 games last season before shutting down with shoulder problems, will move to the rotation in an effort to stay healthy.
That leaves Boston looking for a closer.

**PETER HERE....READ THIS LAST BIT, AND THEN ME.....THE BULLPEN.........

"We've had a lot of talks about trades for a closer," Epstein said during a conference call. "We've dabbled in free agency, but haven't gotten anything done yet. Our bullpen will look a lot different on Opening Day than it does now."

Yes, we have to hope the 'pen will look and perform more friendly, to put it nicely. Oh, this is that guy from Connecticut who many of you like to read. To see what he thinks? Maybe to make fun of him? Too easy! Maybe to flirt? Maybe to say, with a smile, "Nice job!" All I know is this. Next week's winter meetings will be a very exciting time. I hope the Sox do it right....thanks for putting up with me. I love you all.