BoSox Injection
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Red Sox have become a franchise where fat contracts go to die

By Rick McNair

Jun 17, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; A general view of Fenway Park prior to batting practice before a game between the Boston Red Sox and Seattle Mariners. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 17, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; A general view of Fenway Park prior to batting practice before a game between the Boston Red Sox and Seattle Mariners. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 4, 2017; Baltimore, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Hanley Ramirez (13) flies out to center in the first inning during a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 4, 2017; Baltimore, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox designated hitter Hanley Ramirez (13) flies out to center in the first inning during a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports /

Hanley Ramirez

This is an example of too much money for too little production.  I know 2016 was exciting as HanRam did what was expected, but that may just be an anomaly season in his Boston tenure.  If a vesting option kicks in the Red Sox will be paying over $22 Million for this season and the next two for a designated hitter. The final cost of the Ramirez contract could be in excess of $100 million.

This contract made little sense when it was done. Hanley’s defensive skills were ordinary in the best of times and those times had passed by. The move to left field was mystifying and first base was nothing exceptional. The Red Sox long-range game plan had to have Ramirez moving to DH in the latter years of his contract and that is exactly what has happened.

Ramirez would be difficult to move for payroll relief since the contract is ponderous. With Sandoval and Ramirez the Red Sox have a commitment for $40 million for this season – The Rays payroll is $70 million for the entire team.

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