NL Teams Warm Up to Idea of a Ramírez Deal - Gordan Edes, Boston Globe

“The Manny Ramírez trade chatter predictably spiked upward yesterday, with the winter meetings just days away.

While the Red Sox continued to close in on a deal for free agent outfielder J.D. Drew, and have made an offer to shortstop Julio Lugo, whom they project forming a speedy on-base combination at the top of the order with Coco Crisp, the speculation about possible destinations for Ramírez intensified.”

Drew Deal May Lead Manny Out the Door - Michael Silverman, Boston Herald

“The Red Sox appear to be the leading candidate to sign free agent outfielder J.D. Drew and, according to one baseball executive, the deal could be a big one.

A five-year deal worth an average annual salary of $15 million is one figure being heard in baseball offices, with only a physical holding up the announcement.

One scenario in play yesterday was that another unnamed team was planning to swoop in for a last-minute bid later this week. That, or a physical for Drew in Boston, could be holding up the deal.”

Not Manny Outs Left - Tony Massarotti, Boston Herald

“If you believe actions are louder than words, then here is what the Los Angeles Angels said last week: They would rather have Gary Matthews in center field (with ample pitching) than Manny Ramirez in left (without), even if it means Matthews earning an average of $10 million over the next five seasons.”

Ramirez might be dealt by Saturday - Buster Olney, EPSN

“The Red Sox are aggressively shopping outfielder Manny Ramirez now, according to major league sources, at a time when the slugger’s trade value has peaked, and there is a sense among some executives that their trade talks are gaining momentum.

“I wouldn’t be shocked if the Red Sox traded him by Saturday,” says one big league official.”