Red Sox manager John Farrell said on Friday that he talked with starting pitcher Jon Lester about the trade rumors that raised the possibility that the left-hander could be sent to the Royals in a package that would land minor league outfielder Wil Myers in Boston.
"I talked to him," said Farrell of the rumor. "That was a rumor that was started based on interest by another team. As I talked to Jon, when you’re a talented player and a good player, it’s not uncommon for teams to ask."
Farrell said that Lester -- who also encountered trade rumors during the 2012 season -- was not adversely impacted by the rumors.
"I know this -- he’s extremely motivated right now, he’s very much entrenched in his offseason program and looking forward to getting started on 2013," Farrell said of Lester, who struggled through a 9-14 campaign with a 4.82 ERA in 205 1/3 innings in 2012. "We can’t worry about opinions and perceptions of others to maintain your focus on the work you’re doing now. He’s healthy. He’s talented. There’s no reason he shouldn’t be a very good pitcher again."
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