The Boston Red Sox, in dire need of third base production, are reportedly prioritizing the San Francisco Giants' Pablo Sandoval, along with Chase Headley of the New York Yankees, sources told CBSSports.com Baseball Insider, Jon Heyman.
The Milwaukee Brewers' Aramis Ramirez is also reportedly on the team's wish list, but of a much lower priority than Sandoval or Headley.
The Red Sox are seeking increased production across the lineup after a season that saw them finish 71-91 overall and 11th and 10th in the American League in runs scored and home runs, respectively.
The 28-year-old Sandoval hit .279 with 16 home runs and 73 RBI's this season. He has also had a quality postseason on all fronts, according to Baseball-reference.com, helping his Giants reach the World Series for the second time in three years.
Headley, who started the year off with the Padres, was able to help himself with some increased production after the trade to New York at the halfway point of the season.
"Sandoval and Headley are both free agents, with the incumbent teams both interested in re-signing them," wrote Heyman. "The Giants have made no secret about wanting to keep Sandoval, and they have a terrific track record of keeping their starters, especially through their recent mini dynasty -- though they seemed to prefer a three-year deal in spring training, with Sandoval said to be seeking a $100-million-plus contract at the time."
The Red Sox went with Will Middlebrooks at third this year, receiving only mediocre production from the youngster - he hit .191 with two home runs in a season that saw him miss significant time due to injury.
It was only two years ago that Middlebrooks looked like a star on the rise when he managed an OPS of .835, but his recent seasons have fallen well below expectation.
The Yankees also reportedly want to resign Headley, meaning that Alex Rodriguez's future with the Bronx Bombers is in doubt, according to Heyman.