Hot Stove Lunch: Red Sox would be wise to seek cheap bench options; 'Cutch' finally on the move and more

This is a daily BSJ off-season feature that will arrive in time for your lunch, Monday-Friday.

A spin around the leagues with the latest news, notes, and rumors around Major League Baseball

RED SOX

The glacial pace of the free agent market has, invariably, led to some bargains for teams. The latest case in point: Howie Kendrick re-signed with Washington for a two-year, $7 million deal.

That's a pretty affordable contract for a versatile player who managed to play four different positions last year and compiled an .844 OPS with the Phils and Nationals.

That has me wondering if the Red Sox shouldn't be looking into some depth options. The Pirates, having moved Gerrit Cole and Andrew McCutchen in the last week, are willing to move super utility man Josh Harrison, though the Sox might not want to part with the necessary prospects to get such a deal done.

How about free agency? Well, Eduardo Nunez is still out there, and while he might have been able to command $7-$8 million at the start of free agency, the price has surely dropped with so many players still available and spring training on the horizon.

Nunez could offer plenty: he could handle second base until Dustin Pedroia returns from knee surgery, and then, serve as depth at three different infield positions (second, short and third). In today's game, having versatile, talented players is a must.

The Sox still have Brock Holt under control, and he can play the outfield along with all four infield positions. But Holt had six extra-base hits in 140 at-bats last season and had an anemic .548 OPS. His OPS, in fact, has gone down in each of the last two seasons and there are legitimate concerns about his durability after suffering multiple concussions.

While the Sox engage in a staredown on J.D. Martinez, there are other moves that can be made to improve the rest of the roster. Re-signing Nunez -- or someone similar -- would be a relatively easy and affordable one.

AL EAST

How the Andrew McCutchen deal Monday impacts the Yankees.

The Orioles are looking for more from their rotation at a time when many teams are asking less.

The Blue Jays added to their outfield depth by signing Curtis Granderson.

There are some new inductees ready to go into the Ted Williams Hitters Hall of Fame next month

AL CENTRAL

Indians pitcher Triston McKenzie has been rated among the Top 10 right-handed pitching prospects in the game.

One of the prospects the Tigers received in the Justin Verlander trade has been judged one of the 10 best defensive prospects.

The Twins are still hoping to make a bold move in free agency.

AL WEST

A look at what the Rangers' new ballpark might look like.

The A's are trying to change their image.

Perhaps there's a path forward for the Mariners, suggests Ryan Divish

NL 

The Giants made their second big trade of the off-season.

TAKE I MAY REGRET IN A MONTH:

Hope the Mets know what they're getting into, though I have my doubts.

They signed Adrian Gonzalez to play first base. That's a move sure to improve clubhouse chemistry and morale.

But have no fear -- Bobby Valentine has vouched for him. That should make everyone feel better.