Ben Cherington said Monday that starting pitching appears to be an area of strength and depth for the Red Sox. That doesn’t mean that the Boston won’t still see what’s out there this winter.
According to David O’Brien of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Red Sox are among eight teams who have contacted free-agent pitcher Tim Hudson. O’Brien reports that the Giants, A’s and Rangers have also reached out to Hudson, while MLB.com’s Mark Bowman reports that the Indians and Royals have thus far shown the most interest in the 38-year-old.
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This high level of interest reportedly comes in addition to that shown by Hudson’s most recent club. The Braves did not make Hudson a $14.1 million qualifying offer but did make a one-year contract offer to the right-hander, according to O’Brien.
Bowman reported Monday that Indians manager Terry Francona had a lengthy phone discussion with Hudson a few days ago, while Royals manager Ned Yost is expected to meet with the pitcher later this week. The Red Sox’ level of interest is unclear.
Hudson was sidelined for the final two months of the 2013 season with a fractured ankle. The three-time All-Star went 8-7 with a 3.97 ERA in 21 starts before going down, and he is 205-111 with a 3.44 ERA in 427 career appearances (426 starts).
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Photo via Flickr/Rich Anderson
