According to Sports Illustrated, here's the top pitchers who remain available as free agents & my thoughts on each one.
Hiroki Kuroda - Good innings eater, but probably too expensive for Cherington.
Edwin Jackson - 5 different teams in 3 years says that maybe he's not a good clubhouse guy.
Roy Oswalt - Too expensive & possibly still injured, even for a 1-year deal.
Javier Vazquez - I agree with SI that he needs to stay in the National League.
Joe Saunders - A lefty to compliment Lester would be nice, but he has not been very effective - even in the NL.
Ryan Madsen - Boras may have left him out to dry by asking too much money & too many years. Even for less money & years, I don't see the Sox as a fit for Madsen with Bailey & Melancon signed.
Dan Wheeler - Sox did not offer arbitration, but Wheeler came on strong in the 2nd half. The Sox may still negotiate a lesser salary & try to bring him back. I think Wheeler still has a lot to offer.
Darren Oliver - He may be as old as Wakefield. I'd rather see a younger Doubront or Miller take a spot in the pen.
I'm sure Cherington will still be working trades in addition to free agent acquisitions. You can bet that there will be more additional arms on the roster before Spring Training starts.
Of all the guys named above, Wheeler is the only one that interests me - if they can bring him back at a reasonable price.
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