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Time is running out for Boston's exclusive rights to negotiating with Mike Lowell. Even though the season does not begin for 4 1/2 months this is not good news for the Sox. Here's why: Boston most likely offered Lowell a three year deal last week. If Mike does not accept it by midnight tonight is is likely that he wants to see if a team is going to offer him a 4 year deal. Teams like the Yankees and Angels will likely make that offer. (Remember Johnny Damon?) So what happens next? Boston's options are A-Rod (great player but hated by fans) Miguel Cabrera (too high a price, see earlier post) or move Youk back to 3rd and go for a solid 1st base free agent or make a deal; Hank Blalock's name has been mentioned but it will take more than Coco to get him. Here are some of the free agents @ 1B this year: Sean Casey, Darin Erstad, Tony Clark, Ryan Klesko, Mike Lamb, and Doug Mientkiewicz. From this list the only real choices are Mike Lamb who hit .289 with 11 taters this season and can also play third base or Sean Casey. Casey hit .296 but only hit 4 HR's. Although time may be running out for the Sox to sign Lowell there is still time for you to bid on Manny's car.