Morning Marquee: Boston Red Sox land Sandoval, Ramirez

The Boston Red Sox have made the biggest statement early in free agency by landing Hanley Ramirez, and reportedly Pablo Sandoval as well. The two make up a pair of the more desired free agents, and the Red Sox don’t appear to be done. They are still in the running for Jon Lester, and have also been linked with the Phillies in a possible deal for Cole Hamels. They do seem to have a logjam in the outfield, where it’s expected Ramirez my end up playing. A key trade chip may be Yoenis Cespedes, who is in the final year of his contract after coming over from Oakland.

It’s reported that the Seattle Mariners are near an extension for third baseman Kyle Seager for seven-years, $100 million. The first-time All-Star would join Robinson Cano as two key pieces locked up for the Mariner’s long-term. Add those two with Felix Hernandez, and the M’s have the ship headed in the right direction.

Could the Red Sox big spending change things for the Chicago Cubs and Jon Lester? The team was reported to be an unlikely destination, but it’s possible the Red Sox could look at a more economical option, such as a trade for Hamels instead of signing Lester. This could open the door for the possibility of the Cubs being a possible landing spot.

Josh Willingham retires after an 11-year career, with his most recent stop in Kansas City. It’s reported he received a “substantial offer” from a contending team, but in the end decided to walk away from the game on his own terms. He spent time with the Marlins, Nationals, A’s, Twins and Royals.

Here are some of the headlines from yesterday:

‘Red Sox in money to burn mode’ – BoSox Injection

‘Kyle Seager gets a major contract extension from the Mariners’ – Sodo Mojo

‘Could Jon Lester still come to the Chicago Cubs?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Willingham announces retirement’ – Call to the Pen

‘Big Unit, Pedro, Smoltz headline Hall of Fame ballot’ – MLB.com