Mar 6, 2013; Fort Myers, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox left fielder Jonny Gomes (5) at bat in the first inning during a spring training game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at JetBlue Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Enter Ryan Sweeney. Sweeney, a former top prospect who peaked at 55 on Baseball America’s top 100 list, hasn’t quite lived up to his previously lofty expectations. Up to now, Sweeney has failed to show any power (only 14 career home runs, career .378 SLG) and has had serious difficulties staying healthy (missed 77 games last year). So, he might not be perfect. But right now, Sweeney is the best internal option the Sox have to maximize both of their abilities. For his career, Sweeney has hit .293/.347/.402 against right-handers, clearly better than his numbers versus same sided pitchers (.225/.298/.281). In addition, Sweeney adds an element of defense that Gomes simply does not have. These contrasting skillsets allow both players the best opportunity to succeed in their given roles and would best serve the team in this capacity.

Furthermore, manager John Farrell can mix and match both players given the situation during the game. If the Sox are winning and Gomes started, Sweeney could come in as a defensive replacement to further preserve the lead (as well as save Gomes any embarrassment from his defensive limitations). Conversely, Gomes could enter the game and tee off against a lefty specialist if the Sox are in need of runs. This versatility that both provide could be a major advantage throughout the season, and one that gives the Sox the best chance to win.

Clearly, Gomes and Sweeney would make a pretty solid platoon option. However, some would argue that spending $5 million on a part time player is a waste of money and roster space. For now, enlighten me with a blind player comparison. We’ll call these players Y and Z. Last season, player Y hit .287/.365/.474 with 18 home runs and 63 RBI in less than a season’s worth of at bats. Similarly, player Z hit .282/.346/.478 with 25 home runs and 95 RBI last season. This upcoming season, player Y is scheduled to make approximately $7 million while player Z will make $14 million as part of the $100 million extension he signed last offseason. In terms of accolades, player Y has none while player Z is a former all-star, silver slugger, MVP vote getter, and is the face of his franchise. Player Z is none other than Ryan Zimmerman. Player Y is Gomes and Sweeney and their numbers against the platoon last season. While this fails to account Zimmerman’s superior defensive abilities, the Gomes/Sweeney platoon posted similar offensive statistics for half the price. Strip away the word platoon, and the Red Sox have an all-star caliber player on their hands this upcoming season.

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July 29, 2012; Bronx, NY, USA; Boston Red Sox right fielder Ryan Sweeney (12) doubles to deep left allowing two runners to score during the second inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

Sweeney told MLB.com “…when I talked to [general manager Ben Cherington], he talked to my agent, too, he said, ‘We still have interest in Ryan.’ So I had actually been talking to the Red Sox for a while and Ben and just kind of needed to make a decision, and then I didn’t even realize that Kalish needed surgery.”

During the conversation, Sweeney made an offer to Cherington: try me at first base. Sweeney told MLB.com, ”He didn’t really say what he expected of me, he just said I have a good shot at making the team and begin able to play different positions,” Sweeney said. “He said something before talking about maybe needing a first baseman. Not to me. … I had talked to Ben on the phone, I was like, ‘Hey, Ben, do you need me to go get a first baseman’s glove?’ And he just kind of laughed.

As far fetched as it may sound – Sweeney has never played first at the major league level – there may be an opportunity to convert him to a more Nick Swisher-like OF, 1B player.

His large frame makes him a natural with the notable exception of his Achilles heel – a distinct lack of any real power hitting ability during his career in the bigs. In his six years in the majors Sweeney has hit a total of just 14 homers.

If new Red Sox hitting coach Greg Colbrunn can channel the 6’4″, 220-pound Sweeney’s inner power, he could become a valuable commodity in the Red Sox lineup. Sweeney could spell starting first baseman Mike Napoli when needed and also provide a left-handed option in the lineup.

May 16, 2012; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Boston Red Sox right fielder Ryan Sweeney (12) at bat against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE

Sweeney was acquired in a trade with the Oakland Athletics last winter, where the Red Sox parted with Josh Reddick and two prospects for Sweeney and Andrew Bailey. With Bailey, an elite closer who had put up a 2.07 ERA and 75 saves in three seasons in Oakland, the Red Sox were getting a reliable piece to the bullpen. Meanwhile, Sweeney was merely included as a throw in. While the deal looked like a steal at the time, Reddick has torn the cover off the ball with 31 home runs while Sweeney and Bailey have suffered through injury-riddled seasons here in 2012.

It seems hard to think back to a time like the start of 2012, when hope abounded throughout Red Sox Nation. However, if you can recall, Sweeney endeared himself to Red Sox fans almost immediately– hitting a game tying triple with two outs in the ninth inning of Opening Day. The Red Sox lost that game 3-2, but Sweeney had left his mark. He followed that game up with an excellent April that saw him bat .373/.394/.567 with 11 doubles.

From that point on, though, Sweeney didn’t handle the bright lights of Boston very well. He sunk to a .254 May, and in June he injured himself while making a fantastic diving catch in right field. From that point to when he injured himself slamming his hand into a wall on July 30, Sweeney suffered and when he was announced out of the season– his line had fallen to an unimpressive .260/.303/.373 in 63 games.

Since breaking his pinky on that fateful day, Sweeney has been all but forgotten in the Red Sox’ future plans. However, with Jacoby Ellsbury, Daniel Nava, Sweeney, and Ryan Kalish the only certainly returning outfielders– it’s quite possible he could play a larger role in 2013. Beyond his limited offensive value, Sweeney is an excellent defensive outfielder. His good speed and instincts in right field have led the 27 year old to a strong 5.2 UZR/150 in 2012.

It looks like 2013 will be a very strange year for the Red Sox, and if he stays healthy, Sweeney could be an anchor to all that change. He, Ellsbury, Dustin Pedroia, and David Ortiz are the only truly established major leaguers in the Red Sox lineup that will definitely be back in 2013 (barring a trade). If the Red Sox don’t resign Cody Ross, it appears quite possible that Sweeney will be the starting right fielder. And, you know? The Red Sox could do a lot worse.

We have added quite a few amenities since the organization has been forced to invest so heavily in the Disabled List. Who would have thought that the number of players on the DL would rival the number of actual players on the roster, eh?

Anyway, this area is where everyone hangs out. This room is informally referred to as ‘Carl’s Lair’. He’s not here right now but we expect him back any minute. It’s actually kinda lonely without him. We got so used to seeing him around it just doesn’t feel right without him here. Like you, he had a wrist injury too before the elbow thing cropped up. Oh, and the hamstring thing once he ‘came back’. In any event, the placard on the room can easily be converted to ‘Dice-K’s lounge’ if Carl continues to stay healthy. Ha ha, ho ho…hoo whee, that was a good one wasn’t it Mr. Middlebrooks?

And over here, this where all the action happens when the guys aren’t in treatment or putting together welcome baskets. We’ve got it all here. Video games and unlimited beer and chicken here at “Josh’s Man Cave”.

Beckett  isn’t here for extended periods of time but visits often enough and is so ugly when supplies are low that we decided to simply place a weekly order to keep things on the up and up. Come to think of it, Mr. Beckett is in an ugly mood no matter the circumstance. Oh well.

Feel free to take a seat anywhere except for the reserved seats for Scott Atchison, Andrew Bailey, Rich Hill, John Lackey, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Daniel Nava, David Ortiz, Vicente Padilla or Ryan Sweeney. If I were you, I’d not get a chair next to Sweeney. He’s seemingly so low key and then BAM, he just off and hits something. Mr. Ortiz is also chomping at the bit and has been in a foul mood. Not to worry. He’s a short timer. Also off limits are chairs left open in perpetuity for Mr. Crawford and Mr. Ellsbury.

Settle in Mr. Middlebrooks. Wrist injuries are tricky. It’s going to be a long haul.

Oh, chicken, chicken, you can’t roost too high for me.
Oh, chicken, chicken, come on out of that tree.
Oh, chicken, chicken, chicken, you can’t roost too high for me. 
C is the way it begins.
H, the next letter then, 
I am the third.
C, what a seasonly bird. 
K is to fill him in.
E, I’m near the end.
C-H-I-C-K-E-N,
That’s the way you spell chicken.
- The Chicken, Mississippi John Hurt

Sweeney, who punched a door behind the dugout at Fenway Park after grounding out in the eighth inning on Monday night was put on the 15-day disabled list and subsequently removed from all trade talks.  Call it a twist of fate in Sweeney’s favor, provided he likes his Boston home, or call it another cruel element in Ben Cherington’s suddenly inability to trade those that come most coveted.

Sweeney was said to have been scouted by multiple teams prior to the deadline, including the Chicago Cubs.  Gordon Edes of ESPN Boston reported that the Red Sox were indeed shopping Sweeeny leading up to Monday night, when obviously things changed in a drastic form.

Sweeney, who hasn’t hit for a lot of power this season, hitting zero home runs despite recording nineteen doubles in 219 plate appearances, was said to be one of the more sought after Red Sox outfielders.  Well wonder no more as the trade deadline has come and gone and because Sweeney broke his hand on a bizarre fashion, he’ll remain a Red Sox for the rest of the season. This of course considering we see him again in a Sox uniform this year given he’s to miss 8 weeks with a broken hand.  Nice Ryan, real nice.

Source Image,bloomberg.com/news, Photoshopped by EN

Keep you expectations at, or below, sea level about Red Sox trades—there won’t be any.

[OK, maybe some insignificant trade, but not one that will put the Sox in the Playoffs this season.]

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If the Red Sox are indeed interested in upgrading their starting rotation then maybe acquiring Justin Masterson and reuniting him with the Boston organization may be just what the doctor ordered.

According to Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com, the Cleveland Indians may be interested in dealing Masterson and both the Red Sox and Rangers were on hand to watch his horrific start on Saturday.  Masterson gave up 10 runs (8 earned) over 5.2 innings, raising his ERA to Josh Beckett like at 4.47.  On the season Masterson is 7-9 through 22 starts and 139.0 innings pitched.  He has a WHIP of 1.381 with a strikeout ratio of 6.9/9 and a walk rate of 3.8/9.

Lately the Tribe has fallen behind in the AL Central, falling two games below .500 after being swept by the Twins over the weekend. Nothing has been reported as to what the Indians would be looking for in return for Masterson and given he hasn’t replicated his 2011 success as of yet, the Tribe is unlikely to let him go for nothing.

This is a deal the Red Sox should look at making before the deadline.  Not only was Masterson a highly sought after prospect when he was with the Red Sox, but his salary is only $3.83MM this season and is arbitration eligible for the next two season before being a free-agent in 2015.  He’s young, has raw talent and could help this club in the coming years.  Make the call Ben.

One name we’ve heard that the Red Sox could potentially trade is outfielder Ryan Sweeney.  Now we hear from Gordon Edes that the Sox are in fact shopping Sweeney, although he doesn’t indicate whom is interested at this point.  Earlier this month we heard that the Cubs were interested in the former Oakland A.  Given the plethora of outfielders the Red Sox currently have on the roster and injured-reserved list, it’s no surprise they are looking to move one or two of them. The 27-year old doesn’t hit for a lot of power, producing a line of .265/.308/.380/.688 with no home runs and 16 RBI.  A couple of injuries have limited Sweeney to just 215 plate appearances.

The Sox bullpen has been one of the consistent bright spots all season long and reports have the Sox interested in Rockie’s reliever Rafael Betancourt. Acquiring Betancourt would be an upgrade for the Red Sox despite the bullpen being in the top five in all of baseball.  On the season Betancourt is 1-3 with a 2.92 ERA in 38 games out of the Colorado bullpen this season. He is 34-27 with a 3.17 ERA in 581 career appearances (courtesy of NESN).

Betancourt is of interest to the Blue Jays, Rangers and Braves so the Rockies are in a position to demand fair value for the reliever.  It’s hard to fathom the Red Sox will upgrade the bullpen over their rotation, but stranger things have happened.

Finally, Nick Cafardo of the Globe tweets that the Red Sox were in heavy discussions with the Twins for starting pitcher Francisco Liriano before Minnesota dealt him to the White Sox.  Liriano may not have been upgrade over anyone in the current Red Sox rotation except for Aaron Cook.

 Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-US PRESSWIRE

Last night was absolutely a must-win game for the Red Sox. If they did not win last night, they absolutely would be selling– they still may be selling, but wrapping up that win against the Yankees was a key game. It looked like it would be a close one with Felix Doubront and Hiroki Kuroda as the starting pitchers and it was; they did it in exciting fashion too, as the game went into extra innings in a very similar way as the game before it– the Red Sox took an early lead, blew it, and regained it on a hit by Pedro Ciriaco.

The Red Sox took the early lead against Kuroda and the Yankees after putting runners at first and second with two outs for Ryan Sweeney. Sweeney was in a massive cold spell, and at the time was just 1-16 since the All-Star Break. However, it was Sweeney that did the damage here– taking one into the left-center gap for a two-run double. After Sweeney’s double, both pitchers settled down tremendously and this game really transformed into a pitcher’s duel.

The Red Sox still held a 2-0 lead as the game entered the bottom of the seventh. That was when Russell Martin led off the inning with a line drive home run over the short porch in right field, and was followed up by an Ichiro Suzuki single. After striking out Jayson Nix, Felix Doubront was taken out of the game after allowing just a run and striking out 8 over 6.1 strong innings. The bullpen corps stranded the Yankees in the seventh, but the Yanks would tie up the game in the eighth on an RBI single up the middle by none other than Russell Martin.

Both teams were held scoreless in the ninth and so the game entered extra innings with a 2-2 score. At this point, David Robertson replaced Rafael Soriano to pitch for the Yankees. He surrendered a leadoff walk to Jarrod Saltalamacchia, and the next batter– Will Middlebrooks– squared around to bunt. However, the ball hit his hand, but the umpires ruled that he was around and it was called a strike. Middlebrooks shook it off and singled to right to put runners at first and second. Ryan Sweeney grounded into a forceout to put runners at the corners for Pedro Ciriaco. Ciriaco blooped one over the head of Robinson Cano to score Saltalamacchia and give the Red Sox a 3-2 lead. Alfredo Aceves held the Yankees in the bottom half and the Red Sox won by that score.

Josh Beckett walks of the field after being relieved. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-US PRESSWIRE

Oh, my God, we’re having a fire! Sale.

As Tobias Funke famously suggested, maybe it’s time for a fire sale. Now before you jump all over me I’ll let you know that I believe the Sox are going to be buyers, not sellers. I’m just hopping on Mr Rogers’ train to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. The Red Sox have been opposed to make right decisions for a few years now, so I don’t expect them to make the right move in this instance. You may be opposed to the Sox selling, but aren’t you sick of not watching the Red Sox in the playoffs. This will be the third straight year of golf in October; maybe it’s time to mix things up. First thing we’ll do is target players that the Red Sox can trade, players that they won’t be building around. Secondly, I will throw out potential trades for such players.
There are three lists. Pitchers I would try to trade, hitters I would try to trade, and players that I don’t need to trade, but would for the right price.

PITCHERS
Josh Beckett
Matt Albers
Aaron Cook
John Lackey
Mark Melancon
Vicente Padilla

HITTERS
Kelly Shoppach
Mike Aviles
Nick Punto
Carl Crawford
Daniel Nava
Scott Podsednik
Cody Ross
Ryan Sweeney

FOR THE RIGHT PRICE
Daniel Bard
Jose Iglesias
Jacoby Ellsbury
Jon Lester

Trade #1. Josh Beckett and Matt Albers to the Dodgers for Zack Lee, Chris Withrow, and Scott Van Slyke. (I would include Kelly Shoppach if the Dodgers would add a better second prospect)

Why the Red Sox should do this deal: Beckett is a problem in the clubhouse. I don’t really believe in addition by subtraction so that’s why the Red Sox are getting a high upside pitching prospect, who is still a ways away. Beckett is still owed 15.75 over each of the next two seasons plus the rest of his salary this season. Albers makes 1.075 million this year and is arbitration eligible next season. The Red Sox will save over $33 million. That’s what they’re giving up. They would get Zack Lee. Lee is the Dodgers top pitching prospect and it was rumored that they would have given him up (plus a package) for Garza. Beckett has slightly worse numbers, although in a tougher division, plus is signed to longer years. Beckett’s contract isn’t one that would scare teams away. Lee is only 20 years old but hasn’t put up good numbers in the minors. In Single-A this year he only walked 1.6 batters per 9, while striking out 8.5. However, Double-A has seen those walks go up to 5 per 9. I expect that will lower once he gets going. Chris Withrow is a 23 year-old pitcher who has recently been moved to the pen. That move could very well be permanent. Withrow has good stuff but his control is still in question. He averages 5 walks per 9 in his minor league career and 9.3 strikeouts. Those are similar to Daniel Bard’s numbers as a starter in the minors. Scott Van Slyke is already 26, not much of a prospect anymore, but he’s torn up Triple-A. He hasn’t had success in the majors, but he’s a throw in player that the Sox can take a chance on.

Why the Dodgers should do this deal: First of all, if they would give up Lee for Garza, they should for Beckett. Beckett would be their second best starter and his numbers should be even better in the National League, in Dodger Stadium. His ERA with the Marlins was .36 better than with the Red Sox. Albers and his 2.35 ERA would be a nice addition to the bullpen. If the Dodgers are serious about making a run at the playoffs, this would be one of the best moves left that they could make. The new Dodgers ownership is showing their willingness to spend.

The next trade I would do would involve Ross or Sweeney.
It’s been reported that the Reds and Pirates have scouted the Red Sox outfield extensively.

Trade #2: Cody Ross and Mike Aviles to the Pirates for Tony Sanchez, Nick Kingham, Alex Dickerson.

Why the Red Sox should do this deal: Both Ross and Aviles (abr. elig) are free agents after this year, so why not get something for them? Tony Sanchez went to school at BC and was once a highly thought of prospect. Here is what piratesprospects.com says about the catcher who they list in their 4th tier of prospects.

“Tony Sanchez was hitting for a .277/.370/.390 line in 141 at-bats in his second run through Double-A. At the age of 24, and in his second run through Double-A, he should have been putting up better numbers. He got hot in his final two weeks at the level, which was enough to send him up to Triple-A. His path is similar to the one Jordy Mercer took. Struggle in year one in Altoona, start slow in year two, then take off around the middle of May. The biggest concern with Sanchez is that he’s not hitting for power. In his two seasons at Double-A he combined for an .087 ISO. He improved this year, with a .113 ISO, but once again it was his second year at the level. Until he shows improvements, I’d put his upside as an average starter, with his value fueled by his defense.”

Kingham is a 20 year old who is throwing 95. Besides the fastball piratesprospects says he has two other above average pitches. Alex Dickerson is 22 and still at A-ball which is worrisome but he was drafted with no true position so maybe he’s destined for the AL. He’s expected to hit for power.

With these prospects, the Red Sox can consider Sanchez as a potential starting catcher a couple years down the line and eventually Kingham is expected to be a middle of the rotation guy. I don’t have high hopes for Dickerson but maybe he can become a DH.

Why the Pirates should do this deal: The Pirates would only be taking on what is left of Ross’ and Aviles combined 3.2 million dollar salary. Ross would be their starting right fielder and hitting in the middle of the lineup. Garrett Jones would go to first and Mike Aviles would be a huge upgrade at shortstop over Clint Barmes. Ross would hit 4th or 5th and Aviles would hit 6th or 7th. These additions would be huge upgrades to the Pirates lineup, who look ready to break their under .500 streak and make a playoff run.

Trade #3: Ryan Sweeney and Vicente Padilla for Neftali Soto (and a very low prospect).

Why the Red Sox should do this deal: The Red Sox could go to arbitration with Sweeney this off-season but their OF is already pretty full. Soto could be the replacement for David Ortiz in a year or two. Soto has bad numbers this year, he’s hitting .227 in triple-A, however his career average is .271 and he had 30 home runs in Double-A last season with a .272 batting average.

Why the Reds should do this deal: This is the first deal where I’m not sure if they should. However, Soto isn’t coming up anytime soon with Votto at first and his OBP and AVG are an of concern. Sweeney could be a platoon OF that can backup all 3 positions. Sweeney could even be the starter at CF if the Reds get tired of Drew Stubbs and his below .300 OBP. Padilla would be a solid reliever in the middle of their pen.

Trade #4: Kelly Shoppach. Shoppach HAS to get traded. LAD, LAA, SF, STL, and OAK are all contenders that could use Shoppach. The Sox won’t get much but if they can get a decent prospect for him I’d be happy. I consider his value equal to a relief pitcher prospect who’s expected to be a 7th or 8th inning guy, and not too far away from the bigs, nothing more than that.

Trade #5 Jacoby Ellsbury and Jose Iglesias for Justin Upton. I wrote all about this trade here a week ago.  It seems like Upton is less available than he was last week.

Players I haven’t mentioned in trades yet but listed above.

Jon Lester – I wouldn’t trade him. However, if the Red Sox got a great offer for him, I wouldn’t turn it down; either that or if Lester was the centerpiece of a Felix Hernandez trade.

Aaron Cook – If anyone offers something for Cook that won’t cost the Red Sox money, I’d take it. Get something for him, he could be an asset for someone.

John Lackey – No one will offer anything. I just put him on the list because I WOULD trade him if I could.

Mark Melancon – I hated this trade at the time and his value has dropped since. It’s possible that a team needs a reliever desperately. He had good numbers in the NL, if someone offers a good role player or a C prospect, I’d take that.

Carl Crawford – I like Crawford. He’s a good player; the worse thing about him is the contract. He’s playing injured. If someone would take his whole contract, I’d take nothing for him. Just get the money off the books. If they offer a good player (like the prior Hanley rumors) or a prospect, I’d pay some. However, he’s not someone that I’d trade and eat his salary (like Renteria).

Nick Punto – He doesn’t have a lot of value, if someone needs a util and is willing to take his $3 mil next year, I’d take almost anything.

Daniel Nava – I love watching Nava, but he’s not as good as we think he is. He’s slightly better than a 4-A player. You don’t have to deal him, but he’s not going to add much here besides being a 5th outfielder.

Scott Podsednik – He’s injured, and has low value. Dave Roberts-esque. The Red Sox traded Henri Stanley for Roberts. Expect someone of that value… exactly.

Daniel Bard – I’m still hoping they can fix him and have him setup but I’d listen to offers if someone sees him as a future closer.

Let’s take a look at future money off the books if the 5 trades I proposed happen.

$31.50M from Beckett ($15.75M per year, plus the rest of this season)
$1M from Albers. (He makes 875,000 this year and will get a bonus in arbitration this off-season. $1M is a very low guess)
$2M from Aviles. He makes $1.2M this year and is arbitration eligible. I’m going low on his offer too.

$2M from Sweeney. He makes $1.75M and is also arbitration eligible.
$10M from Jacoby Ellsbury. He makes $8.05M this year and has one year left in arbitration.
$2M from Jose Iglesias.
-$9.75 for Justin Upton

The Red Sox are also losing Dice-K’s contract, which is $10M.

So let’s add up next year’s money off the books, including Dice-K but only including 1 year off Beckett. The other year will be future savings. For the sake of the argument let’s pretend that Ortiz comes back at the same salary, which I doubt.
15.57 + 1 +2 +2 +10 + 2 + 10 = 42.75 – 9.75 = $33M

Guessing on arbitration, if the 5 deals I listed happened, the Red Sox would save about 33 million next year.

Assuming that they resign all of the bullpen, this would be their Depth chart.

C – Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Ryan Lavarnway, Tony Sanchez (top catching prospect)
1B- Adrian Gonzalez, Neftali Soto, Scott Van Slyke
2B – Dustin Pedroia, Nick Punto
SS- Pedro Ciriaco, Punto
3B – Will Middlebrooks, Punto
LF – Carl Crawford, Daniel Nava
CF – Ryan Kalish, Jackie Bradley, Jr. (probably not ready)
RF – Justin Upton, Nava
DH – David Ortiz
SP – Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz, Felix Doubront, John Lackey
CP – Daniel Bard?
RP – Franklin Morales, Andrew Miller, Alfredo Aceves, Junichi Tazawa

With 33 mil to spare the Red Sox will need a SS, a CF (maybe), and a SP or two.

SS- Stephen Drew (you all cringe at that last name) has a $10m option that I couldn’t see getting picked up. The Red Sox can probably offer him 7. Jhonny Peralta also has a $6 Mil option. Jason Bartlet would be a defensive gem real cheap who can’t hit ($2.5m?). For the point of this exercise, let’s say they sign Drew for $7mil for a year.

26 Mil left.

CF – Michael Bourne will cost at least 15m, Josh Hamilton will be close to $20m, Shane Victorino at least $14m, BJ Upton, 13ishh. However, Melky Cabrera, Angel Pagan, Ross, and Grady Sizemore would all be significantly cheaper. What about Torii Hunter? Would he come to Boston given the bad history here?
Let’s pretend that he came to play with his friend Crawford. 2 years, $8 mil per.

18 mil left.

That leaves a pitcher or two needed. Zack Grienke is someone that would scare me in Boston. But what about Shaun Marcum? He makes $7.73M this year and has excelled in the AL East. What if the Red Sox offer him 3 years and $12M.

That leaves $6 mil for arbitration boosts, adding a bullpen arm, and a couple cheap veteran starters (like Aaron Cook was this year). Those numbers will be a little over $6M but the team salary would be pretty much what it is this year but your farm system is so much better.

This would be the lineup.

LF – Crawford
2B – Pedroia
1B – Gonzalez
DH – Ortiz
RF – Upton
3B – Middlebrooks
CF – Hunter
C – Saltalamacchia
SS- Drew

That lineup is arguably better than this year’s lineup. Plus, you added hitters Van Slyke, Tony Sanchez, Alex Dickerson, and Neftali Soto to the system.

The rotation would be.
Lester
Marcum
Buchholz
Doubront
Lackey

And you added Zack Lee, Chris Withrow, Nick Kingham as pitching prospects.

The bullpen would be Daniel Bard, Franklin Morales, Andrew Miller, Alfredo Aceves, Junichi Tazawa. That’s if you don’t add anyone else.

Honestly, I’m tired of just missing the playoffs. The worst place to be in sports is a fringe playoff team. Most likely you won’t win the World Series, and you’re not bad enough to rebuild. I’m sick of it. Things aren’t working the way they are. It’s time to rebuild. The thing about the Red Sox is, if they do these moves, they will be at least as good as they are now and their system will be more talented. With all this said, 2,500 words later, I don’t expect the Red Sox to be sellers and that’s too bad. And it’s not even that they’d be sellers. They’d be builders. This year is not going to happen, so take a loss for the rest of the year to build something big going forward. The Red Sox need another wave of talent in their system and this would provide that.

You’re Ben Cherington and you’ve got the ball.  You always wanted to be the guy on the mound with the entire season on the line. You got what you wished for: to be the one who makes the choice at the moment of decision on the diamond: this will be the turning point in your baseball career.

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Yesterday we reported that Ryan Sweeney appealed to the Chicago Cubs, courtesy of an inside source relayed by Michael Silverman of the Herald.  Today Silverman reports that while Sweeney could be a trade chip, the club may be more interested in retaining the 27-year old.

Daniel Nava, Scott Podsednik and Ryan Kalish all appear to be fair game as a trade asset.  Given the fact that the Red Sox are interested in both Matt Garza and Ryan Dempster of the Cubs, although talks are not fully engaged according to Silverman, it wouldn’t be out of the realm of reason to see one of the Sox outfielders head to the windy city as a package for either of the Cubs starters.

Nava’s stock is said to be higher than it has in recent years states Silverman, given his improved defense along with his switch hitting abilities that have seen him produce a slash line of .275/.388/.427/.815 with 3 homers and 26 RBI. He also has 17 doubles in 52 games. The once highly touted prospect, now 29, was said to have lost a significant amount of his value given his slow road to the show.  While it’s too early to determine if he’s a late bloomer, Nava is drawing attention to himself with his fine play since being recalled and now puts the Red Sox in a nice position to potentially deal him while he has some reasonable value.

Silverman did not report any other teams specifically that were interested in Boston’s outfielders, but that is likely to change as time goes by in the next two weeks and the deadline approaches.  Cody Ross would likely fetch the greatest return given his ability to hit for power this season, but Cherington appears to be reluctant to deal Ross despite him only being inked to a one-year deal.

Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reports that the Cubs and Red Sox could be discussing a deal involving Sweeney, according to one baseball insider.  The Cubs have made it public knowledge that both starting pitchers, Matt Garza and Ryan Dempster are available for the right price with Garza fetching a king’s ransom in prospects in return.  Any deal that has Sweeney in it will surely need to be sweetened with a Jose Iglesias type player to land either Garza or Dempster.

On the season Sweeney has a slash line of .283/.319/.400/.719 with 14 RBI and 17 doubles.  His lack of power has been made up by his ability to rip the ball down the lines and stretch a base hit into a double, creating runs for the Red Sox.  Sweeney has been a nice acquisition as part of the Josh Reddick/Andrew Bailey deal, albeit he’s a far cry from what Reddick is doing in Oakland this season.

Sweeney has battled injuries this season, just like every other Red Sox outfielder, resulting in only 192 plate appearances in 54 games.

Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE

It’s been a long time in waiting, but the Red Sox will finally get another glimpse at former top prospect Ryan Kalish. Kalish was their #1 prospect in 2010 and was called up after the abundance of injuries to the outfield. For a 22 year old, Kalish did a pretty decent job in Boston with a .252/.305/.405 slash line to go with 4 home runs and 24 RBIs. He also led the team with 10 stolen bases in his 53 games, showing the makings of a five tool player. He was sent down to triple-A Pawtucket to begin 2011, but the general consensus was that he’d be back up soon.

Wrong. Kalish struggled to start the season, batting only .209 with no home runs in 22 games to start the season. Things got dramatically worse when he injured his left shoulder making a diving catch in right field. He was placed on the DL, but nobody could have really predicted how bad of an effect that injury would cause. 2011 essentially became a lost year for Kalish as he would only play two more games (both in short-season-A Lowell) the rest of the season. His prospect status dropped dramatically and he even started the 2012 season on the DL.

Once he got off the DL, he was optioned to triple-A Pawtucket after a few rehab games in A and double-A league. So far, he’s gotten off to a surging start since starting his rehab on June 5. He is currently batting .394/.487/.818 with 4 home runs and 10 RBIs and was looking like the prospect he once was. Well, luckily for Kalish (and unluckily for the Red Sox), Ryan Sweeney has been placed on the 15-day DL with a toe injury. Kalish is the man the Red Sox have chosen to call up and the now-healthy Kalish will be looking to prove a point.

It’ll come at a price, however, as Sweeney has been one of the better hitters for the Red Sox this year. He is batting .292/.330/.404 with 17 doubles and 13 RBIs on the year. In Sweeney’s absence, though, it will be interesting to watch Kalish try and redeem himself. Still only 24 years old, the left-handed outfielder will try and prove he’s here to stay. In this season, that seems it could be unlikely with the Red Sox’ surplus of outfielders (Jacoby Ellsbury, Carl Crawford, Cody Ross, Ryan Sweeney) all probably going to be back soon. Kalish should be an exciting player to watch, though– he could provide a bright spot amidst all the injuries, like he did in 2010, and in any case– he can’t be worse than Darnell McDonald.

Boston Red Sox catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia congratulates David Ortiz for hitting a home run during the fourth inning at Fenway Park. Credit: Greg M. Cooper-US PRESSWIRE

Based on the current voting results from June 11^th, only one Red Sox player is slated to start the All-Star game, DH David Ortiz. In fact the only other player in the top 5 at their position is Dustin Pedroia, who is 3^rd among AL second basemen.

We can all agree that the fan voting in general is flawed but which Red Sox position players should be considered? Let’s go position by position.

1B. Adrian Gonzalez. Gonzalez is possibly the most talented first baseman in the league. Not only that but he’s even played right field recently. Does he deserve to be an All-Star? As of today Gonzalez is 6^th among AL 1^st basemen in batting average with .267.  With 5 home runs Gonzalez is 14^th among AL first basemen.  RBI? 6^th with 35.  OBP, SLUG, and OPS are all 9^th among AL 1^st basemen.  With 22 doubles, Gonzalez leads all of the AL (tied with Ian Kinsler). Congrats.

Prognosis: Adrian Gonzalez does not deserve to be an All-Star in 2012.

2B. Dustin Pedroia. With a .275 average, Pedroia is 4^th among AL 2^nd basemen. With 5 home runs he’s 6^th. 6^th in RBI as well with 25. His OBP is .333, which is 5^th. A .411 slugging % is 4^th in the AL as is his .744 OPS.  Pedroia has as many runs scored (33) as Dustin Ackley, 2^nd baseman for Seattle who have the 12^th best (out of 14) runs scored in the AL. They are tied with Kelly Johnson for 4^th.

Prognosis: Dustin Pedroia does not deserve to be an All-Star in 2012.

3B. Kevin Youkilis or Will Middlebrooks. Do I need to get into the numbers? Youkilis doesn’t deserve to be an all-star. Middlebrooks, although we love what he’s done, he hasn’t been up and contributing long enough to be considered an all-star. The good news is that Middlebrooks is in the top 10 in both homeruns and RBI among AL 3^rd basemen despite only having 124 at bats.

Prognosis: Neither Kevin Youkilis or Will Middlebrooks deserve to be an All-Star in 2012.

SS. Mike Aviles. With a .263 average Aviles is 6^th among AL shortstops. With 8 home runs Aviles is 2^nd in home runs. JJ Hardy has 11, but Aviles beats him in doubles, RBI, and average. With 37 RBI, Aviles leads all AL SS. Aviles is 9 ahead of Hardy who is in 2^nd place. Aviles is 2^nd in doubles to Asdrubal Cabrera with 15. A .282 OBP leaves Aviles 9^th in the AL. Aviles is 4^th in SLUG% and 7^th in OPS. Mike’s 7 stolen bases are 5^th among AL shortstops.

Prognosis: I believe that Mike Aviles should be the backup shortstop to Derek Jeter in the All-Star in 2012 game. Although, Asdrubal Cabrera deserves to make the team as well.

C. Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Salty is tied for 1^st among AL catchers with 11 homeruns. Unfortunately, A.J. Pierzynski, who also has 11, is beating Salty in most other categories. Salty has 30 RBI, which is 4^th among catchers. Unfortunately again, Joe Mauer is beating him in RBI and is beating Salty in a bunch of categories. Salty doesn’t have enough at bats but would be 2nd with a .525 SLUG, the only one higher is Kelly Shoppach. Four catchers would have a higher OPS.

Prognosis: Mauer deserves to start this year and Pierzynski should backup. If the AL carries 3 catchers, the 3^rd should be Saltalamacchia. Matt Wieters is right on his tail.

OF. No one! Here’s the top OF in Boston for each category. None have enough ABs to qualify for .AVG, .OBP, .SLG, or .OPS. In home runs Cody Ross’ 8 are 15^th. McDonald and Nava each have 2 and are ranked 44^th.  Ross’ 28 RBI are 15^th. Nava ranks 32^nd with 19, and Sweeney is 34^th with 13. Sweeney has 17^th doubles for 4^th among AL outfielder Nava is 15^th with 12. Ross has 9 and McDonald has 6. Runs scored, Ross is 27^th with 24. Ross and Sweeney have 19.  In stolen bases, Podsednik is 24^th with 4 and Nava has 2.

Prognosis: Sadly, Cody Ross has been the Red Sox best outfielder this year.  No Red Sox outfielder deserves to be an All-Star in 2012. However, Ellsbury could be all-star worthy based on last year, but will we even see him before the game?

DH. David Ortiz. This is a two player race. Ortiz and Encarnacion. David Ortiz leads every offensive category for DHs, except Encarnacion leads in HR, RBI, and SB but besides SB, they are very close.

Prognosis: David Ortiz deserves to start in the 2012 All-Star game.

After looking at these stats, the fans seem to be right. Ortiz should be the only All-Star starter from the Red Sox. Salty and Aviles should both be considered as bench players. Do you believe that? From this team full of high paid players Ortiz, Salty, and Aviles are the ones who deserve to be honored at the midsummer classic.

Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-US PRESSWIRE

The 2011-2012 offseason was a big one for the Red Sox. Several players came and went, and many of those who left Boston were much beloved players. Today, I’ll be looking at those Red Sox players who went to pursue their careers elsewhere last offseason and what it would be like if they had stayed. The names I will be covering today are Erik Bedard, Jed Lowrie, Josh Reddick, and Jonathan Papelbon.

Erik Bedard- Bedard only pitched for the Red Sox for two months last season, and his time in Boston was marred by injuries. He was acquired on the Trading Deadline of July 31, 2011 from the Seattle Mariners in return for four minor leaguers. In 8 starts for the Red Sox– Bedard went 1-2 with a 4.03 ERA and 38 strikeouts in 38 innings. Since signing with the Pittsburgh Pirates on a one year deal this offseason, Bedard has seen some success in the Steel City. So far, he’s gone 3-6 with a 3.72 ERA and 56 strikeouts in 55.2 innings. The Red Sox certainly could use some pitching help this year, as their pitching staff is ranked 28th in the league with a 4.51 ERA this season. However, I’m not sure where the Red Sox would put Bedard, as it probably would have involved either Felix Doubront or Daniel Bard not being in the rotation; and Doubront has been the Red Sox’ best pitcher this year.

Jed Lowrie- Many thought that it was a pretty fair deal when the Red Sox sent Lowrie and prospect Kyle Weiland to Houston in return for reliever Mark Melancon. Melancon has been stuck in triple-A Pawtucket all year since starting off this season in a miserable fashion, so it’s looking like the Astros lucked out on this deal. Lowrie has been a pleasant surprise for the Astros this year, batting at a .291/.371/.506 slash line with 9 home runs and 23 RBIs so far. Mike Aviles has been solid for the Red Sox this year, with a .258/.279/.433 line this year, but it looks like Lowrie has been legitimately better. With the Red Sox’ bullpen pitching great lately, it doesn’t look like Melancon is in line for a call up, so the Astros had a major steal in Lowrie.

Josh Reddick- Many fans of both Oakland and Boston, myself included, thought the Red Sox had a steal when they traded Josh Reddick and two prospects to the A’s in return for Ryan Sweeney and Andrew Bailey. However, Bailey was quickly injured and had thumb surgery before the season even started and is still on the 60-day DL. Ryan Sweeney has been good for the Red Sox (.321/.356/.450, 16 doubles, 13 RBI)  but Josh Reddick has been money since his arrival in Oakland. Reddick leads the A’s in batting average (.265), home runs (14), RBIs (29), slugging percentage (.545), and runs (33). In the Red Sox’ injury-filled outfield, slotting Reddick in that lineup card would look really nice right about now.

Jonathan Papelbon- Papelbon was the big departure from the Red Sox when the Red Sox’ all-time leader in saves (248) signed the largest deal of any reliever in history (4 years/$50 million) with the Philadelphia Phillies. Don’t get me wrong– Papelbon has been fantastic with the Phillies, a 2.01 ERA and 15 saves in 15 chances. However, Papelbon hasn’t really been missed since April 21, when the Red Sox blew a 9-run lead to the Yankees. Since then, the Red Sox bullpen and new closer Alfredo Aceves (4.73 ERA, 14/17 saves) have both been great. At this point, I would prefer Aceves blow a couple more saves than Papelbon while making about $47 million less.

Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-US PRESSWIRE

This was a strange game for the Red Sox on many levels– regardless, it got the job done as they won the game to move out of last in the AL East. It’s been a wild ride this year for the Red Sox and they are by no means out of the doghouse, but in a year full of injuries and underperformance, I’ll take a 28-25 record for now. Today’s game was a sloppy one with both teams committing two errors and it could have been much more than that with several questionable defensive plays occurring for both sides.

The first of these defensive miscues was when Blue Jays’ center fielder Colby Rasmus misjudged a line drive hit two him by Daniel Nava. The ball popped out of his glove and allowed two runs in to score in a four-run second inning for Boston. The other two runs came on an RBI single by Will Middlebrooks and an RBI double by Nick Punto (yes, you read it right). This game was not over, as by the Blue Jays ate away at the lead and by the fifth inning it was only a 5-3 lead for the Red Sox. Homers by Jeff Mathis and Jose Bautista, plus a bloop RBI single by Kelly Johnson highlighted this comeback effort.

In the midst of all the defensive miscues in this game, we missed out on a pretty good pitcher’s duel. Felix Doubront was not fantastic today, but he got the job done– tying a season high of 6.1 innings and striking out 7 while allowing 3 runs (2 earned). He would earn the win and move to 6-2 with a 3.75 ERA and team-leading 66 strikeouts this season. On the other side, Kyle Drabek was very good after a rough start to the game. Besides a few control issues, I get the feeling that Drabek is the real deal. He throws hard, mixing in a good change and a very good curveball which fooled several Red Sox hitters.

The Red Sox would pick up an insurance run on a Ryan Sweeney in the eighth and it was a good thing that they did. The Blue Jays picked up a run in the bottom of the eighth on a very weird play. With Edwin Encarnacion on first base and one out, Brett Lawrie singled into right. It appeared to be a routine base hit but as Ryan Sweeney attempted to throw the ball back to the infield, the ball slipped from his hand and escaped about 100 feet away. Encarnacion scored from first to cut it to a 6-4 lead. The Red Sox would put the game away for good in the ninth when Nick Punto (again, you read it right) crushed a ball into the second deck to make it 7-4. Alfredo Aceves ended the game with a 1-2-3 ninth, striking out one to pick up his 14th save of the year and conclude a 7-4 Red Sox win.

Boston Red Sox left fielder Daniel Nava signs autographs for fans prior to playing the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. The Red Sox defeated the Phillies 5-1. Credit: Howard Smith-US PRESSWIRE

I have a very simple question. Is this team likable? For the first time in a while, I feel like I can honestly say yes. Maybe it’s just me; maybe people have always liked this team regardless of who’s on it.

Here’s where I’m coming from. I like the underdog, the dirt dog. I mean, I really like dogs in general (see picture). I’ve rooted for this team my whole life and for most of it the Red Sox weren’t great. Basically I’ve seen one decade of great baseball, and almost two of underdog baseball. I grew up surrounded by the mantra of “There’s always next year”. I grew up playing games like Ken Griffey baseball. I’d always pick the bad teams and try to build them up. I still do that. I used to have one game that  had an “Expansion” mode, where two new teams came in the league, you ran one and had a fantasy draft. These teams were so bad that the best player in those drafts was a young pitcher named Rick Ankiel. I wonder if he’s related to the outfielder? Anyway, that’s where I come from. I like overachievers, guys who leave it all on the field. I like the kind of team that gets described the same way that someone might describe Dustin Pedroia.

Of course I love dogs! Meet my crazy puppy Tobey.

So are the Red Sox in that category? Last year was about two things, disappointment and underachieving stars. The only bright spot might have been Jacoby Ellsbury. But think about the disappointments, Carl Crawford, John Lackey, Kevin Youkilis, Bobby Jenks, Daisuke Matsuzaka, J.D. Drew, Clay Buchholz. These are all players with decent contracts that we expected more from. Now think about how the season ended. The way it went down, they way they responded. Terrible. That’s not the definition of a likeable team.

Now let’s think about this year. Yeah, we’ve got a lot of those same players on the roster but so far we haven’t had to think about them. This year we have Alfredo Aceves, a man willing to do anything that the team asks. A guy who thought he’d be a starter, then told that he’s going to be in the pen, then becomes the closer. Scott Atchison, a 36-year old who was pitching in Japan before pitching in Boston. Rich Hill a hometown guy.  Mike Aviles, a career backup who has never played more than 110 games in a season.

Currently the 4 players on the 40 man roster, not including the DL, that are listed as outfielders are Marlon Byrd, Daniel Nava, Scott Podsednik, and Ryan Sweeney. None of these players were projected to start, only one to be on the team. Podsednik played 39 games with the Dodgers last season and started the year in the Phillies minor league system. Ryan Sweeney has only one season (2009) with at least 400 at bats. Marlon Byrd has had the best career out of all of them, and he averages 40 RBI per season. But most importantly is Daniel Nava. To me, he’s the most likable player on the team.  At 29, he’s played less than 90 games in the majors, all with Boston. Nava was a guy that no one wanted. He was designated for assignment and removed from the Red Sox 40-man roster on May 20, 2011. He was unclaimed and was out-righted back to the Pawtucket Red Sox. This year Nava was not even invited to major league training camp.

And let me talk about two guys who I really like on this team. Former 1^st round picks who have been underachievers their whole career but seem to be getting it together this season. Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Andrew Miller. Miller had such high projections and he may never reach those. Who knows if he will ever be a starter, but I love his arm coming out of the pen. This season in 12 appearances Miller has a 2.38 ERA, 2.4 walks per 9 and 11.9 Ks per 9. All career best. His previous best in various seasons were 4.84, 4.7 bb/9, and 7.9 k/9. And Salty, what a player he has become. This is what people expected all those years when he was considered a top prospect. Compared to all AL catchers with at least 120 ABS (11 qualify), Salty is 3^rd in batting average at .273, 1^st in HRs with 10, and 4^th in RBI with 25. He has the best slugging percentage with .576 and OPS of .883. If he had enough at bats to qualify against all AL batters he’d be 7^th in the American League in SLG and 13^th in OPS.

Boston still has the standard fan favorites, Ortiz, Pedroia, and Ellsbury. That hasn’t changed.  And how can fans not like Gonzalez, a guy who switches positions for the team? I know his personality isn’t what Pedroia’s is but he’s still putting team first. Middlebrooks is winning fans over with his power. With these players and the addition of the misfit toys, how can you not like this team?

I know the counter argument, the starting pitchers. They aren’t likable. They lost most of the goodwill they had last season, but it hasn’t been terrible this season. Beckett has had some rough patches, Lester isn’t the ace that we thought he was, and Buchholz is at risk of losing his starters role but they appear to be getting better. And I mentioned some bullpen pieces earlier, but as a whole, are there any relievers on this team that you don’t like?

I like this team. I feel good rooting for this team. Who knows what will happen with Nava and who knows if Salty and Miller will keep up these numbers. But as long as we have guys that know they need to fight to keep their jobs, to stay in the lineup, to fight for future jobs once the Red Sox get their high priced players back, I will root for these hard workers much like I rooted for Bill Mueller.

Let’s start with the pitching:

- Aaron Cook – after having the stitches removed from the nasty gash on his knee, the wound broke open again that delayed his rehab stint.  Cook has resumed throwing and is likely a couple weeks away from muddying up the Sox starting rotation yet again.  Let’s hope this time it’s not Josh Beckett who misses a start.

- Daisuke Matsuzaka – in what is being deemed his second rehab program, Dice-K threw five scoreless innings on Saturday in what was his best pitching performance in likely two years if you count his time with the Red Sox last season.  He only allowed two base runners one of which was a single and wasn’t bothered by the neck injury that has set his return back.  Matsuzaka only threw 56 pitches in the outing but his schedule was either the fifth inning or 75 pitches, which ever came first.  He will need to be stretched as a starter in his next few outings before he’s ready to rejoin the big club, likely in a two to three weeks.

- Andrew Bailey – the former Athletic’s close has resumed throwing activities and has recently successfully tossed from 60 feet.  His return is likely around the all-star break given he hasn’t thrown off the mound yet and would need a near full rehab stint.

The list of position players is a tad longer, namely the outfielders:

- Jacoby Ellsbury – Abraham reports that the all-star center fielder is playing catch but that isn’t something to write home about given he throws with his left and injured his right shoulder.  Still no reported timetable making a July return possible but doubtful with every passing week.

- Carl Crawford – a name that has almost been forgotten about given we haven’t seen him at all this year.  The news at this point isn’t much better.  Crawford is taking 40-50 swings in the cage reports Abraham but as he points out he isn’t yet throwing the baseball, something that will be required as an outfielder as CC isn’t DH material.  Timetable?  Heck we’ll be lucky to see him by September at this rate.

- Cody Ross – this guy is a little more pressing to have back in the lineup given his production at the plate this season.  His injured foot is on the mend, at least to Ross it is.  Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald reported that Ross informed Valentine his foot was feeling great and expects to be activated as soon as he’s eligible which is June 5th according to Silverman.  Sometimes what the players feel and what the doctors diagnose are two different things, so let’s hope Cody  is right on this one and we see him back in early June.

- Darnell McDonald – is scheduled to play the full game in Pawtucket on Monday and Abraham reports that no timeline has been set as to how long his rehab stint will take.  Currently he’s 0 for 5 at the plate begging for more time at the minor league level to work on his timing.  Given he’s only hitting .179 on the season with Boston it may not be his timing but more his ability, something that has held him back his entire career.

- Jason Repko – after slamming into the Green Monster and separating his shoulder, Repko is apparently close to a rehab stint but as Abraham points out he may not have a roster spot when he’s fully recovered.  Given how Marlon Byrd and Scott Podsednik have stepped up in the injury riddled outfield, Repko, a soft hitting batter may be looking for work outside of Boston.

- Ryan Kalish – the once promising prospect who has battled injuries of late is set to join class A Salem where he will DH starting this week.  Kalish was in line to compete for the starting right field job this year and at this rate seeing him as a September call up may be his only chance to wear a Red Sox uniform this year.

Whewwww.  That takes care of them all, at least those that we’ll see returning at some point this season.  The likes of John Lackey and company are done for the year so no point in talking about them; especially Lackey, he still makes my blood boil.

This move indicates that we may have seen the last of Adrian Gonzalez in right field, at least for the time being.  Sweeney brings the number of healthy and available outfielders to four including Daniel Nava, Marlon Byrd and Scott Podsednik.  It would be difficult to justify putting Gonzo in right given the ability of the aforementioned four that play the position on a regular basis.

Filling out the outfield portion of the lineup won’t be the difficult part for manager Bobby Valentine, but rather he now has to face the challenge of the third base dilemma; also known as the Youkilis/Middlebrooks saga.  Look for a more in depth post on this in the coming day or two.

With Sweeney being activated, the club optioned Che-Hsuan Lin to triple-A Pawtucket.

No word yet on the moves that will be made in order to make room for Podsednik on the roster.  Despite rumblings that Adrian Gonzalez could spend more time in right field, we have yet to hear if that has been confirmed for tonight’s game.  It is speculated that Kevin Youkilis will return tonight making the Youk/Middlebrooks saga front and center.  Gonzalez in right field would help diffuse that somewhat, but only for a short period of time.

For now we are left with the 36-year old legs of Scott Podsednik to try and carry us through this rough stretch of horrific injuries to the Sox outfield.