There are several Red Sox players in the final year of their contracts. That could bode well for the 2011 season.
The most talked-about is Cinco Ocho. Papelbon had his worst season as a closer in 2010, but still managed over 25 saves for the 6th season in a row. His arbitration number will equate to $10 - $11 million in salary for the 2011 season. He has many reasons to excel this year while playing for a multi-year contract in 2012.
Big Papi signed a 1-year extension, even though he was looking for a multi-year deal. He too has many reasons to excel this year. With Gonzalez & Crawford coming on board Big Papi is projected to hit 5th or 6th in the lineup. If he can produce in his new role, maybe the Sox do bring him back for less money in 2012.
J.D. Drew is finally in the last year of his 5-year deal. Drew's history is one of injuries & his inability to stay on the field keeps him from putting up numbers like he did in LA prior to joining the Sox. The Red Sox website indicates that Drew will probably retire after the 2011 season.
Big years from Pap & Big Papi can only help the Sox run into the playoffs in 2011. Don't forget that we are also counting on turn-around years from Beckett & Lackey as well.
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