The Boston Red Sox are still communicating with a pair of free agent starting pitchers. Both Roy Oswalt and Edwin Jackson continue to listen to the team, though neither appear any closer to signing, according to a report from WEEI.
Talking is better than nothing for a team looking to add a little depth to their rotation. Oswalt is still talking to the Texas Rangers and the St. Louis Cardinals. Jackson has been mentioned in connection with the Orioles, and other teams had made offers, reportedly, last week. Both pitchers are said to be looking for one-year deals.
Jackson is best suited for the back of a rotation. Oswalt represents a more intriguing possibility. The 34-year old is coming off a season shortened by a back injury. In just 139 innings of work in 2011, Oswalt struck out 93 and walked 33 with a 3.69 ERA. It was the first time since 2003 that Oswalt made fewer than 30 starts in a season.
Oswalt wants $10 million for a year of his services, according to Ken Rosenthal at Fox.
As for the Red Sox, WEEI points out that while nothing may come of talks with the two pitchers, it does signal that they have some financial flexibility, never a bad thing in these uncertain times.
For more Red Sox coverage, check out Over the Monster. All things MLB can be yours at Baseball Nation.