Sox management's eyes still on Cuban prospect, but their wallets aren't

Sam Galanis
Contributing Writer

The buzz around Cuban pitching prospect Miguel Alfredo Gonzalez keeps growing, and word is that the Red Sox are going to play it safe when it comes to the bidding war.

Photo courtesy of MLB.com
On Thursday we reported about all of the interest in Gonzalez, mainly from the Sox, Dodgers, Rangers, and Cubs plus three more teams. As our writer The Guru made clear, this guy is supposed to be the real deal, having three years as professional player in Cuba and throwing a “fastball in the mid 90s, a changeup, a curveball and a forkball,” according to NESN.

But looking at that resume, and especially looking at the teams that are after him, it’s obvious that Gonzalez isn’t going to come cheap to anyone. The Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo reported that the Sox “won’t break the bank” for the pitcher. They already showed that by letting the Dodgers take rookie sensation Yasiel Puig for $42 million.

The source of the hesitation definitely comes from the last time they spent big money on an international pitcher, none other than Daisuke Matsuzaka. Apparently, there is some concern with Gonzalez about past injuries. But there is still the issue that the Red Sox could use a new ace, and playing it safe isn’t going to get them one.

If Sox management won’t break the bank, then they probably won’t get Gonzalez. There’s always the chance that he won’t pan out, but you have to weigh what the bigger risk is: spending too much on a guy who doesn’t work out, or having to play against him if he does.

The Gonzalez chase is far from over, and we’ll keep you updated on any happenings for the Sox.




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