December 10, 2008 The Giants have garnered interest in Boston third baseman Mike Lowell, according to the Sun-Sentinel.
Our View:The Giants interest in Jorge Cantu has reportedly declined as a result. This is interesting news, but could be pure speculation.
December 9, 2008 The Boston Herald reports that Red Sox manager Terry Francona said he got a positive update on third baseman Mike Lowell, who underwent hip surgery in October. “He had a sparkling report, which was really nice to hear,” the manager said. “I think the timetable is that he’ll probably be hitting by the middle of January. I think everybody, from the medical people on down, think that when the season starts, he’ll be ready to go."
Our View:The Red Sox are rumored to be big players for Mark Teixeira and if he lands in Boston, Lowell seems like the most likely player to be dealt out of a mix that includes David Ortiz and Kevin Youkilis.
November 30, 2008 If Mike Lowell (hip surgery) proves to be healthy in spring training, he could potentially be dealt by the Red Sox if they land Mark Teixeira, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View:The team would move Kevin Youkilis to third base with Teixeira playing his natural position at first base. Lowell has solid power and defensive skills and could garner interest from the Indians, Dodgers, Angels, and Twins.
November 15, 2008 Mike Lowell is making favorable progress in his recovery from hip surgery, according to the Boston Globe. Surgeon Brian Kelly, who performed Lowell's operation, said, "I think there's a good chance he'll be the same. The pro athletes that I've dealt with that have this type of surgery are typically able to get back to their full level of function without losing much. If there is some degree of permanent damage, is that damage going to become progressively worse? It probably has more to do with longevity of one's career. Will he come back like he was? That's what we all want to know. I'm optimistic."
Our View:Standard recovery time is 4-6 months, and Lowell is already off crutches. He has a shot to be ready for spring training.
October 23, 2008 The Boston Red Sox are interested in signing free agent first baseman Mark Teixeira and would probably trade Mike Lowell to create room for him, according to the Boston Globe. Potential suitors for Lowell include the White Sox, Indians, Twins, Angels, Brewers, Reds, Dodgers, and Giants.
Our View:Trading Lowell would mean that Kevin Youkilis would go over to third base with Teixeira taking over at first base.
