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Winter Meetings, Day II -- A.J. Burnett
December 9, 2008
A.J. Burnett’s agent, Darek Braunecker, told Amalie Benjamin of The Boston Globe the Red Sox had “significant dialogue” regarding the free agent pitcher earlier this morning. There no telling what that means from the team’s perspective because Burnett also has the Braves, Yankees, Orioles, Blue Jays and Phillies on the table as well as the Sox.
It appears as if the Red Sox, Braves and Yankees are the only serious contenders for the right hander. Braunecker told ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick, Burnett currently has a deal on the table from the Braves worth $15 million a year for four years including a fifth year option. The agent also added that he spoke with the Yankees and they are ready to “do better” to any offer the Braves have made.
Although the talks surrounding Burnett coming to Boston are serious, the Sox are hesitant when it comes to signing pitchers to long-term contracts due potential of future injury. Especially in Burnett’s case, who will turn 32 on January 3. In the last 10 seasons, the right hander has landed on the disabled list 10 times with injuries ranging from a broken index finger to the shoulder. Many teams will be hesitant to offer a pitcher who has already required Tommy John surgery on his pitching arm and will be 37 at the end of the deal, a five-year contract. It is too risky.
If the talks prove true with New York and Atlanta, then Burnett will probably not be a nicely wrapped present under the Sox Christmas tree this year. But he the good news is, he will probably not end up in New York. Atlanta fits the 6’5” right hander better. The Braves are in need of pitching with aging veterans John Smoltz and Tom Glavine, possibly calling it quits.
But there still is a chance. John Henry really liked Burnett during his days with the Florida Marlins when Henry was the owner, so he could match or top an offer from another team. And, additionally, Burnett was good friends with Josh Beckett in Florida, so there is the possibility, Beckett will lure his former teammate to Boston in hopes to be re-united.
It is possible but do not count on it. Burnett's going to Atlanta.
-- Boston Sports SID, your source for all information surrounding Boston Sports
-Boston Sports SID
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