According to a major league source, there is 'no traction' in talks between the Red Sox and free agent pitcher Roy Oswalt. While there always remains a possibility the two sides could come to an agreement, such a scenario doesn't seem likely at this point.
Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington stated at last week's Town Hall even in Worcester that adding another pitcher like Oswalt was unlikely and that there was a good chance the current group of starters would be what the Red Sox roll out when pitchers and catchers report to spring training on Feb. 19.
"We wouldn’t rule out adding a starter, but I think it’s unlikely at this point," Cherington told reporters. "I think we’re going to keep looking for ways to improve the team, including the pitching staff, but I wouldn’t expect any major changes between now and the [spring training] report date."
The Reds, Rangers and Cardinals all remain [1] interested in Oswalt, albeit on different levels. St. Louis general manager John Mozeliak recently stated he doesn't anticipate any significant moves before spring training, while Cincinnati would have to clear payroll in order to add a pitcher like the 34-year-old.
For more Red Sox news, go to the team page at weei.com/redsox [2].
Links:
[1] http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2012/02/cardinals-not-likely-to-sign-roy-oswalt.html
[2] http://weei.com/redsox
[3] http://www.weei.com/category/boston/red-sox