Tito Would Be Happy With 4 Outfielders

Terry Francona told the Boston Globe he would be happy to keep Coco Crisp and have 4 options in outfield going into '08. There is no question that Coco is a great defensive player and could be a good late inning option but he is such a streaky hitter it would be a challenge for him to not play everyday. Boston has most of the puzzle pieces in place so they do not need to trade him right now; it may make sense to keep him a trade him at the deadline for a player that could help out in the stretch run. He is also good insurance for when Manny or J.D. get hurt. Coco's agent told the media that he did not want to platoon but he has to say that to try to get the best long term deal for Coco. No team will sign him for big bucks if he only plays 20% of the time next year and hits .250.