Beckett to Sox

with Lowell for Hanley Ramirez, Anabel Sanchez, and another minor leaguer per Gammons.

Imma have to think on this one.

 

Not much to think about at this point, because we won't know how good Sanchez and/or Ramirez are for a while. If Beckett and Lowell can return to their previous form after having off years, it'll have been a good deal, especially considering they have a lot of good young arms. I like that they were able to hold onto Lester. He's gonna be a stud. And they've been saying all along that Dustin Pedroia is further ahead in his development than Ramirez and may be ready for the big club this coming season. Ramirez, on the other hand, seemed to have fallen off a bit last season. Having a gold glover at third is something, and even though he had a bad year, Lowell's numbers were still on par with Mueller's.

Wade Miller can go bye-bye now. And Wells wants out. That leaves Beckett, Clement, Schilling, Arroyo and Wakefield next year. Papelbon and Lester join the rotation in 2007. Not bad.

 

How's that thinking going?

 

It's working out pretty well. You still think he "ruled the earth" last year?

 

I think I was dead wrong about Ramirez. still too early to tell on Sanchez.

I doubt Sanchez will ever be the pitcher Beckett is, and Lowell's been a pleasant surprise. Depending on who they go out and get to replace Lowell (if they choose to let him go), losing Ramirez could wind up being a wash. all in all, I think the Sox did OK.

 

Me too. He's way, way better than I thought he'd be.