Mike Napoli - Priority #1

I hear that the local press is helping Ben Cherington with his off-season duties. It appears that TV & radio have decided for Ben that re-signing Mike Napoli is his #1 job. I can't say that I disagree. Next year with be the last for David Ortiz & Mike Napoli provides protection for him. Many times Napoli made pitchers pay for intentionally walking Ortiz, particularly in the playoffs. I believe that Nap set a personal high for RBI with 90-something. He does strike out a lot which can be annoying in different stretches of the season. But he also has the ability to hit game-changing homers off guys like Justin Verlander in the playoffs. If Ben can reinstate the final 2 years at $13 million each, I think that's a no-brainer. Nap has shown that he can handle playing in Boston & it would be nice to get him back. He could definitely slide into the DH role in 2015. However, he may get offers for more years & more guaranteed money. I think this will be a tricky negotiation for Ben & company.