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MLB : Lowell thumb is the holdup

Odds & News | Webmaster ( Thu 17th, December 2009 )

The trade of Mike Lowell to Texas, from last Wednesday, still isn't official due to the health of the third baseman.

Texas is doing some additional exams on the condition of Lowell's right thumb, an injury that hampered him at the end of last season. Major League sources are saying that the Rangers are pleased with the status of the surgically repaired right hip.

"There're still some effects to discuss," Red Sox GM, Ben Cherington, said yesterday. "It will not be a complete surprise if it does not happen.'' Red Sox will get first baseman Max Ramirez in return for Lowell. The Red Sox also agreed to give Texas $9 million of the $12 million remaining on Lowell's contract. Bud Selig, Commissioner of MLB, should approve the transaction. Yesterday, those formalities hadn't reached his desk and Terry Francona, the Red Sox Manager, has yet to talk with Lowell regarding the deal, and prefers to wait until it's official.

Francona said, "It is hard, I can't really comment on this as it hasn't gone through. I just can't. If anything happens, I will call him.'' The Red Sox didn't offer a contract to outfielder Brian Anderson, who hit .294 over 21 games after he was obtained from the White Sox last July. They did make offers to pitchers Manny Delcarmen, Fernando Cabrera, Jonathan Papelbon and Hideki Okajima. Also, outfielder Jeremy Hermida, and firstbaseman Casey Kotchman.

Cheers for Christmas

Francona was available to greet several of the two thousand fans who casted for the annual "Christmas in Fenway'' occasion that kicked off ticket sales. He empathized that the team is looking to make a significant free agent signing or trade.

He said, "It is hard not to. The fans want their team to win now and I probably fall in that one a little bit as well. But, from watching the front office, you could make mistakes if you act too fast. You've got to be patient. You've got to let this follow its path. I know that we have faith in the men who run our team. As we get ready for spring training, we will have a team that we like a lot.''

Francona marveled in the enthusiasm of the fans who showed up on a cold December day. He added, "I am fortunate. I have not managed a game here that was not sold out. Think about that. It is incredible. I am so grateful. As I know our proprietors do not take this for granted.''

Optimistic Lowrie

Jed Lowrie, Infielder, said that his left wrist appears to be fully healed and he hopes to start swinging a bat by January 1st.

He said, "I need to build it up, but at the same time, I need to give this enough time to heal. I have to find the balance. I will have to become more in tune with the wrist. If it feels good, I will take some more swings., but if not, I will back off."

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