Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

BOSTON _ The free-agent period for Major League Baseball begins on Friday and Jason Bay will be atop the list for available outfielders.

Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein has had "dialogue" with Bay's agent, Joe Urbon, about the club's strong desire to re-sign the left fielder. Bay, 31, has said he would like to return to Boston, but also wants to experience the free-agent process.

Epstein met with a small group of Red Sox beat writers Thursday afternoon at Fenway Park and said there's nothing new to report on negotiations with Bay's camp.

"I think this part of the process is important to him. He'll see what it's like and see what's out there and ultimately make a decision," Epstein said.

Bay reportedly turned down a four-year, $60-million offer by Boston to test the market. The Sox and Bay have had discussions a few different times since last spring training, and Bay is an important offseason signing for Boston.

"He's a priority, certainly," said Epstein.

Since arriving in Boston via a three-team trade that sent Manny Ramirez to the Dodgers at the trade deadline in 2008, Bay has been solid at the plate, in the field and an important factor in the clubhouse.

During his time in Boston he's posted a .274 average with 45 home runs and 156 RBI in 200 games for the Sox.

According to Urbon, teams from both the American and National leagues are interested in Bay's services.

 Tags  Jason Bay Joe Urbon Theo Epstein

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