Red Sox & Napoli issue likely to be resolved "by next week"

It was almost two months ago that Red Sox Nation believed that the team had locked up First Baseman Mike Napoli. It was a reported 3 year, $39 million deal. However, the deal hit a snag when Napoli failed his physical. A reported hip issue made the Sox a little more cautious.

Well, according to CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman, the deal could still take place, and within just a week. Although it is not certain, the Sox are the leading candidate to land Napoli even though other American League teams including the Rangers and Mariners have inquired on the veteran. It is also being reported that the Sox have tweaked the contract proposal. Two rumors include a shorter contract and/or contractual protection in case Napoli's hip becomes a lagging issue.

Napoli has been working out and preparing for the 2013 MLB season. Many sources have claimed that he would be ready to play come Opening Day. It should also be noted that, according to NESN's Ricky Doyle, the Sox have also been linked to other first basemen including Mike Morse, Casey Kotchman, and Lyle Overbay.