Red Sox sign pitcher David Price to $217 million deal

But the Cubs could find themselves relegated to trading highly coveted prospects if they can’t sign a free-agent pitcher – such as Jeff Samardzija, John Lackey or Mike Leake – soon. Despite a loaded crop of pitchers available, “tier-1” always consisted of two guys: Zack Greinke and David Price (the two most valuable targets this offseason, according to our poll of writers).

Price, the 2012 AL Cy Young victor, went 18-5 with a 2.45 ERA last season for the Tigers and Blue Jays. And since Ortiz plays his last season in 2016, Price’s presence bolstering Big Papi’s chances for a fourth ring likely makes his a pleasant rather than unwelcome arrival.

Alderson’s team had its most successful season in more than a decade. Before this deal was made, who was going to start Opening Day for the Red Sox?

Furthermore, because they did not sign Price, the Cubs can now use their money to other areas of need. Clay Buchholz? Eduardo Rodriguez? However, just one year after letting Lester go they are doling out $140 million more for a pitcher without postseason success.

The deal is, of course, not without some risk. A year later, the Tigers traded him to the Blue Jays at the July 31 non-waiver deadline and Price helped Toronto reach the playoffs for the first time since 1993. The contract also includes a three-year opt-out, but that shouldn’t even be a concern for the Red Sox at this point.

Once made official, the deal will represent the largest contract ever given to a pitcher, narrowly edging out Clayton Kershaw’s $215m deal with the Dodgers.

Since signing that eight-year deal with the Tigers, Verlander has struggled mightily, battling injuries and velocity issues en route to a 33-32 record and a 3.84 ERA over the past three seasons.

The Red Sox were also in negotiations with Greinke, according to a high-ranking team official who asked not to be identified due the sensitive nature of negotiations. Apparently, Price thought he was signed, sealed and bound for St. Louis but Boston had their sights set ln Price and threw in enough where he could not say no. This wil be the third AL East team that Price will pitch for. This deal is a big win all around.