Report: Red Sox Among Teams Talking With Jason Bay
BOSTON (CBS) - With gaping holes in the outfield, the Boston Red Sox seem to be exploring any option out there.
Emphasis on "any option out there."
According to a Tweet by ESPN's Buster Olney, the Red Sox are among teams that have been in contact with free agent Jason Bay.
The 34-year-old Bay signed a four-year, $66 million contract with the Mets in 2010, but was bought out by New York after batting just .170 over 70 games last season.
Report: Cherington Discussed Reyes, Johnson Deal With Marlins
Olney stated Bay was looking for some familiarity in his next job, so Boston would make some sense for him. In his season and a half with the Red Sox , Bay hit 45 home runs with 156 RBI over 200 games and made the All-Star team in 2009. He also enjoyed some success in his only two postseason appearances in his 10-year MLB career, hitting .306 with 14 homers and nine RBI in 14 playoff games with Boston in 2008 and 2009.
Since leaving the Red Sox for the Mets, Bay has struggled to stay healthy. He played just 288 games over the last three seasons, battling a concussion in his first season and rib injuries that cut his 2011 and 2012 seasons short. He also suffered a bit of a power-outage with New York, hitting just 26 home runs and batting .234 as a Met.
Heyman On Gresh & Zo: Salty On The Move?
With their needs in the outfield, and Bay likely commanding a low-paying contract, the deal might make sense for Boston. Bay did enjoy one of his better seasons in Boston -- albeit three seasons ago and in a contract year.
Terry Francona's Cleveland Indians are also reportedly interested in Bay.
