Morning Marquee: Hanley Ramirez, Pablo Sandoval join Red Sox

Tuesday was a big day for the Boston Red Sox, as the club announced a pair of high-profile signings at two press conferences at Fenway Park. Two former National League West foes – Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez – were introduced as the newest members of Red Sox Nation after signing a five-year, $95 million deal with a team option for a sixth year and an $88 million, four-year deal, respectively.

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Despite their recent spending spree, Boston is reportedly still in the mix for coveted left-hander Jon Lester, who, after being drafted by the team, spent his entire career in Beantown prior to being traded near the All-Star Break last year. Team owner John Henry told reporters Tuesday that being hit by the luxury tax was not a concern for the team this year, given its lesser payroll commitments moving forward after 2015.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs reportedly have extended an offer somewhere in the $135 million, six-year range to Lester, who is set to meet with the San Francisco Giants this week. The team could also talk to Joe Maddon‘s former bench coach, Dave Martinez, who left the Tampa Bay Rays organization after missing out on the managerial job.

Here’s more from around the league:

“Giants’ third base coach Flannery steps down” – Around the Foghorn

“Dave Martinez resigns as Rays’ bench coach” – Chicago Tribune

“Lester to meet with San Francisco this week” – Call to the Pen

“Cubs must consider second-tier starting options” – Cubbies Crib

“Three amigos ready to take Boston by storm” – MLB.com