Gone Bay-B Gone

Jason Bay's signing with the New York Mets brings his one and a half year stay in Boston to a close. The Mets are getting a very good player that will hit for power (even in that stadium), take his walks and play 150-160 games. The Red Sox knew Bay's talents and contributions well but ultimately decided the cost was too much. Their initial offer of four years, sixty million was about as high as the team was going to go.

What does this mean for the team? Simply put -- Mike Cameron is the left fielder for the start of the season. There has been some talk about Cameron's signing meaning that Jacoby Ellsbury could be moved in a deal for a big time player. Past history tells us that Theo does not like to move his proven young players. Ellsbury gives the club athleticism (defense and on the bases) that the team seriously lacks. His contract is very club friendly.

An outfield of Cameron, Ellsbury and JD Drew in right is very good defensively. Cameron can move to center to give Ellsbury the occasional day off with Jeremy Heredia backing up in both left and right field.

The question is, Are the Red Sox content with the current roster? My guess is that the baseball operations people are okay with starting spring training with who they currently have under contract. I do think the team will add another arm or two with incentive laden deals -- think low risk money with a possible high reward (i.e. Smoltz, Penny, Saito). These type of deals do not always work out but seem to be worth the risk.

The fun should come in June and July at the trade deadline. However, we are a long way from that.