It’s been more than seven weeks since reports surfaced that Mike Napoli was Boston-bound, but we might actually have a resolution relatively soon.
According to CBSSports.com’s Jon Heyman, Napoli and the Red Sox have made progress and continue to try to work out an agreement after the original three-year, $39 million deal hit a snag.
Multiple reports have indicated that the Red Sox are trying to alter their original deal with Napoli after the veteran was found to have a hip issue during his physical with the club. The Sox reportedly want some form of protective language, or they could seek a shorter deal out of fear that Napoli won’t remain healthy for the duration of a multiyear contract.
Heyman reports that there is a belief that there will be a resolution to the situation by next week at the latest, even though Napoli and the Red Sox are keeping their options open. Napoli is reportedly talking to a couple of other American League teams, while the Sox have been linked to some other first basemen, including Mike Morse, Casey Kotchman and Lyle Overbay.
Napoli reportedly is expected to be ready for Opening Day.
Tune in to the Red Sox Town Hall on NESN at 11 p.m. ET on Saturday, Jan. 19.
Photo via Facebook/Mike Napoli
