Boston Targets J.D. Drew

The Boston Red Sox have reportedly offered free agent J.D. Drew a contract.

Sources speculate that the deal could exceed the deal Johnny Damon signed with New York last off season.

By signing Drew, Boston could then have the ability to turn around and trade Manny Ramirez for pitching without worrying to much about production behind David Ortiz.

Should Boston succeed in signing Drew, that would give them 5 outfielders under contract, in addition to Ramirez, Boston also has Wily Mo Pena, Erik Hinske and Coco Crisp under contract.

Boston would seem likely to trade Ramirez and/or Crisp this off-season if they sign Drew. Jacoby Ellsbury is expected to take over center field in 2008 for Boston.

More to come on this story as details emerge.