MLB rumors: Red Sox 'overwhelming' favorites to land Pablo Sandoval

Justin McGuire

MLB rumors: Red Sox 'overwhelming' favorites to land Pablo Sandoval image

Pablo Sandoval is unlikely to re-sign with the Giants, meaning the Red Sox are the team in best position to land the free-agent third baseman, according to Dennis O'Donnell of CBS San Francisco.

"Sandoval was in Boston (on Tuesday) where I am told there is a 90% chance that he will sign with the Red Sox," O'Donnell writes. "The other 10% goes to the Toronto Blue Jays."

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According to the report, returning to San Francisco was never the first choice for the 28-year-old Sandoval. That's why he asked the Giants for a seven-year deal, knowing the team would balk at that. The team reportedly countered with a five-year, $90 million contract.

"If the Giants want to get back in the race, they will have to up the ante, which team officials are considering," O' Donnell reports.

The 2012 World Series MVP hit .279/.324/.415, with 16 home runs and 3.3 WAR in 157 games this season. For his career, his slash line is .294/.346/.465.

UPDATE: Three developments since the initial reports hit:

A source with direct knowledge of the negotiations told Sean McAdam of CSNNewEngland.com the Giants are very much interested in re-signing Sandoval, but it's unclear whether the team will go beyond five years.

Sandoval's brother/agent, Michael Sandoval, told ESPNBoston.com's Gordon Edes that the Red Sox did not make an offer Wednesday, contradicting earlier reports.

The Boston Globe's Nick Cafardo reported the Blue Jays will make an offer to Sandoval soon.

Justin McGuire