Boston In Shock Move For Santana?

Earlier, the news making the round was that the Yankees were in the clear in the race for Santana's pitching arm, but ESPN's Buster Olney has reported that the Red Sox have decided to include Jacoby Ellsbury in the deal. On the other hand, this offer will not include Lester.

The Twins are now expected to decide on one of the two offers, as Santana has told them he will not waive his no-trade clause during the season. The main sticking point appears to be the Twins desire to milk the trade for all it's worth. They insist on better selections with each offer the Yankees or Red Sox return on the table.

With the renewed Red Sox package, I might have to retract my earlier assessment and feel that the Red Sox might have edged closer to Santana.

More on the Red Sox, Eric Gagne will not take up Boston's offer of arbitration as he prefers to close. Texas are keen to take him on, but only for one year.

Update: The Yankees have placed a deadline on their offer at end of Monday.