Losing Damon and Manny would open up about $24 million in payroll. Give half to Paul Konerko and you still can get 2 outfielders for what's left. Plus, when you dump Manny you get Henly Ramirez quality prospects back.
The Red Sox were an old and tired team last year. Their pitching was broken down and there was no juice left. The 3 year run has passed and Chicago, Cleveland Oakland are the teams to match up with.
Heard that. I'd love to pry Yusmeiro Petit away from the Mets. A 2007 (or 2008) starting rotation of Beckett/Papelbon/Lester/E. Martinez/Petit would be deadly. Deadly.