Today's links look at the contracts of Cole Hamels and Jon Lester, the cons of signing Hanley Ramirez, and the possibility of trading two young up-the-middle players.
Alex Speier digs through the details and compares the potential contract of Jon Lester to that of Cole Hamels. (Alex Speier; WEEI.com)
Lester has been thought of as a long-shot because of Boston's unwillingness to sign long-term deals, but Ben Cherington says that's overblown. (Brian MacPherson; Providence Journal)
Johnny Cueto has been mentioned as a possibility to head the rotation as well, but at the moment it appears he's staying put. (Brian Baker; MLB Daily Dish)
I hope you like Pablo Sandoval, because apparently the Red Sox are "all-in." (Gordon Edes; ESPN Boston)
If they miss out on Sandoval, Hanley Ramirez could be another option. Sean McAdam has some worries about that, though. (Sean McAdam; CSN New England)
A couple of players who may be starting 2015 in Pawtucket are generating some trade interest. (Jason Mastrodonato; Masslive.com)
After signing Michael Cuddyer, the Mets would seem to no longer have a need for someone like Yoenis Cespedes. (John Tomase; Boston Herald)
Up today in the top-40 in review is the prospect with arguably the highest ceiling in the system. (Sox Prospects)