Red Sox Are Under His Thumb

The Mike Lowell for Max Ramirez transaction has been held up because the team from Texas is concerned about Mikey's thumb, a nagging injury that has haunted him for a year or so. The assistant Red Sox GM said this...

“There are still things to go over, It would not be a complete surprise if it didn’t happen.’’

And the Boston manager, Terry "Tito" Francona...

“It’s hard, I can’t really comment on it because it hasn’t gone through,’’ Francona said.

The Red Sox would not only be trading one of the most beloved players on the team. In addition, they will give Texas $9 million just to alleviate any money woes for the Rangers with Mike's $12 million contract for his one remaining year. To me, a fan, this is SHEER LUNACY. Boston has many other needs and a Mike Lowell at third base or DHing or just sitting on the bench is far better than a Max Ramirez, who can hit but is sub-par behind the plate. I feel for Mike but I know the Fenway Faithful and Red Sox Nation are behind him 100%. I can imagine the thundering ovation he'll receive the first time he strides to the plate or takes the field this coming year. Oh yeah. He WILL be with the Boston Red Sox for the 2010 season...I feel it in my bones.

OK, let's face it. The Boston Red Sox will set their own price limits for any available free agents. If that player and his agent ask for too much, the Sox WILL NOT BUDGE. That's the way it is. Theo Epstein seems to be content to "wait for next year" when the crop of available players will be overwhelming. That's not the way Larry L. feels but wallet watching seems to be the way the Sox will go right now.

Have a great Monday. It's relatively warm outside at 35 degrees F. here in north central Connecticut. It almost feels like spring except for the white layer of snow atop the grass. But it's December 14th...that's normal. I hope every one of you had a great weekend. By the way, you can click on this post's title for all the sports news from SI dot com and as always, BE WELL. I'll see you soon. Promise.