As you'd expect from the team with the 3rd highest payroll in baseball, the Sox have an embarassment of riches at several positions.
But one position may be a little too rich: Outfield. They have 3 starters cemented for the 2011 season, a 4th that could start almost anywhere else, and a farm system full of potentially solid big leaguers. Many of which could contribute right now if needed. Surprisingly, the most intriguing of those may not be named Kalish, Riddick, or Nava.
...scouts are becoming ever more curious about Juan Carlos Linares, the 26-year-old Cuban outfielder who may be one of the most intriguing players in spring training.
Linares has a blocky body, which prompts some interesting comparisons. Tony Armas, one scout says. His swing resembles Albert Belle’s, according to another.
“He’s a good defensive outfielder,’’ said a scout who has watched him a few times. “He runs the bases well. He had a reputation for being a speed guy when he was a little bit younger and he can still move pretty well.’’
At this point, the Sox really don’t know what to do with Linares, who could be playing anywhere from Double A Portland to the major leagues. After being signed last July 8, he hit .239 in 46 at-bats in Portland. He’s not your typical kid ballplayer. He’s getting into his prime years as a hitter, and so far in spring training, that’s showing. Linares doesn’t cheat himself on his swing.
Last years never-ending rumor was the Lowell-to-Texas trade. While no front-runner has emerged yet, expect to hear murmurs of Cameron getting dealt all season long. The youth movement is only going to perpetuate these rumors. Personally, with Drew's impending DL stints I just don't think it makes sense to jettison Cameron.
Let the youngin's fight it out in the minors and hopefully someone will emerge as the heir apparent to Drew in right.
If there's any lesson Theo has learned these past few seasons, it's that depth is never overrated. The only positive here is that we're not in a position that we have to make any moves. If someone wants one of our outfielders, they have no leverage. Give us what we want or go ring someone else. It's a nice position to be in.
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