Softlaw was alone in saying, a year ago, that there was no chance of a trade for AGon. Softlaw was alone, this winter, in saying that, surgery or not, it was certain that the Padres would sell AGon and that it was likely it would be the Red Sox. Although no extension has been agreed to, as has been falsely reported, it is highly likely that an extension will be signed. This move brings in a good citizen and young superstar that the Red Sox simply had to trade for. It was the correct move and correct time. Last year, Softlaw said that Beltre was the correct move, on a short term contract, and he was. A year later, Softlaw said that AGon was a winter must.
Crawford's not a superstar, but he was given a superstar contract that will end up embarrassing Theo Epstein. The line about speed players aging more slowly is propaganda to distract the readers away form this embarrassing contract.
The Red Sox offense is set for year to come, with AGon, but it had no need for Crawford. The 2011 hopes rest on the same two Texas fat men who were to blame for the short fall in 2010. Even with the injuries, if those two did their jobs, the Red Sox make the 2010 playoffs and had a chance with the suprise Giants.
Starting pitching will decide the hopes of the 2011 Red Sox. Let's hope Lackey and Beckett get out of the labor union mode contract year and do the jobs they are paid to do.
