Wrapping Up The Day

Pena and Sox Agree Boston came to terms with Wily Mo Pena on a deal just prior to the arbitration hearing keeping intact Theo's run of never having gone before the arbitrator in his tenure. Pena will make $1.875 million in 2007, that's $150,000 more then Boston's initial offer and $325,000 less then Pena was seeking. John Farrell's Closer Indications According to the new pitching coach the close will likely be one of the four listed here, Brendan Donnelly, Joel Pineiro, Julian Tavarez and Mike Timlin. Unless Pineiro struggles mightily, you gotta figure hes the man, his contract value is closer money, not middle relief mop up money. And For Those Who Root For The Patriots New England slapped the Franchise tag on Asante Samuel tonight.

And So It Begins...

Well it has finally arrived and with the day for catchers and pitchers to report comes daily updates here on the blog. Its been busy so theres lots to cover. Matsuzaka Arrives Daisuke Matsuzaka has been in Fort Myers for a few days now and has already had a press conference with more attention then any before it in Red Sox nation. It was broadcast live on 4 different networks at 7:30am in Japan as 150 reporters from Japan, Boston, New York, Florida and other cities covered it. It was so huge they set a backdrop and table atop the dugout to accomadate the large media crowd. In the press conference Matsuzaka joked about working on a knuckleball, but said it didnt go to well. He also talked about his first pitch he will throw, saying he would like to throw a fastball and then added with a smile "I would like my first batter, if he is listening, please try not to hit the ball". He has also expressed interest in playing catch with Tim Wakefield saying, "I would love to catch his knuckleballs." Perhaps if he handles it well, he can be Wakefield's personal catcher and add to his value. Keith Foulke Retires While this don't have any ramifications for the Red Sox, I thought I would include it. This morning Foulke informed manager Eric Wedge that he is retiring. He had just arrived at camp this morning. The Indians were counting on him to be the closer this season. Wily Mo Pena Heads To Arbitration There has been no movement in negotiations with Pena and he appears to be the first "Theo Era" arbitration hearing. Hes asking for $2.2 million while Boston offered $1.725 million. I'll have more later today.