The Red Sox don’t sound like they’re done making moves this offseason, and they may not be done putting the finishing touches on what would be their 2013 lineup.
ESPN.com reports that the Red Sox are indeed interested in free-agent outfielder Nick Swisher, who remains on the open market. According to the report, Swisher is being viewed as a “fallback plan” in case the Sox can’t sign fellow free-agent outfielder Josh Hamilton.
The Giants, Yankees and Indians are all also reportedly interested in Swisher.
It’s beginning to sound like the Red Sox may need to start looking at a Plan B in regards to the pursuit of Hamilton, too. According to ESPN.com, Boston isn’t likely to give Hamilton more than a three-year deal, and the outfielder is still likely to get at least a four-year deal from someone.
Swisher is reportedly looking for a five- or six-year deal.
He’s no stranger to Fenway Park, having played the last four years with the Yankees. Swisher played at least 148 games in each of those seasons, hitting .268 while averaging 26 home runs and 87 RBIs with New York.
It will be interesting to see what the Sox do should they sign Swisher. They have already inked corner outfielders Jonny Gomes and Shane Victorino. While signing Swisher would likely take them out of the running to re-sign Cody Ross, trade talks could resurface surrounding Jacoby Ellsbury should the Sox ink Swisher.
Of course, that’s still an “if” at this time.
