Only physicals stand in the way of a trade that would bring 2003 World Series MVP Josh Beckett and third baseman Mike Lowell to Boston for three prospects: shortstop Hanley Ramirez and right-handed pitchers Anibal Sanchez and Jesus Delgado.
The preliminary agreement was confirmed Monday by a baseball official who did not want to be identified because the physicals had not been completed. Beckett, Florida's ace right-hander, had a stiff shoulder late last season and has been plagued by blisters on his right middle finger.
Boston had not contacted Lowell about scheduling a physical. The Red Sox had no comment yesterday on when physicals might take place, but the Marlins did set a date -- for when they might move out of Miami.
They said they plan to slash payroll and received permission from the commissioner's office to explore a move after the 2007 season. A plan to build a 38,000-seat stadium next to the Orange Bowl crumbled last April when the state Senate refused to go along with House approval of $60 million US in state funding.
Owner Jeffrey Loria, who bought the team when Henry took over the Red Sox in February 2002, prefers to stay in South Florida but is now willing to investigate relocation, Marlins president David Samson said.
"The fiscal insanity that Jeffrey was willing to be a part of for all these years is over," Samson said. "We've been asked time and time again, when does it end? And today is that day."
In December 2000, while Henry was owner, a plan to build a $385-million stadium in downtown Miami received tentative agreement from government officials.
Now, the Marlins want to cut the $60-million payroll they started last season with. That could lead to the departure of first baseman Carlos Delgado, who joined the team as a free agent last season. He's due $13.5 million next season, $14.05 million in 2007 and $16 million in 2008.
Ortiz sees Ramirez leaving
David Ortiz thinks Manny Ramirez won't be in left field for the Red Sox come opening day.
"Manny is not returning to Boston," Ortiz said Monday at the Office of the Sports Secretary of the Dominican Republic.
Ramirez, who hit 45 homers and had 144 RBIs last season, has asked the Sox to explore a trade because he's uncomfortable living in Boston.
"Manny lives a difficult situation that only he and his family know about, and he does not want to play there," Ortiz said.
The Los Angeles Angels, who want a power hitter, are viewed as a possibility.