Hot Stove Lunch: With Eovaldi deal done, it's on to the bullpen; O's managerial candidates

Check one more box on the Red Sox offseason "to-do'' list.

A number of reports Thursday morning had the Red Sox and Nathan Eovaldi in agreement on a new contract for the pitcher. Exact length and terms are unknown for now, but as recently as Wednesday night, the parameters of the deal were a four-year pact for approximately $68 million.

Eovaldi has to pass a physical for the contract to become official.

So, if you're keeping score: the Sox are virtually set with their position players  (having re-signed Steve Pearce last month) and their starting rotation.

All that's left to address is the back end of the bullpen. Craig Kimbrel and Joe Kelly are free agents and it's widely assumed that Kimbrel won't return since he's seeking a six-year deal. Kelly remains a possibility to come back in a set-up role.

But that still leaves the closer's role to fill. Among the free agent options: Zach Britton, Andrew Miller, Jeurys Familia, David Robertson and Kelvin Herrera.

There will be plenty of time to sort through the various choices next week in Las Vegas, site of the annual Winter Meetings.

However, it looks like the Red Sox will be largely done with their roster-building by the end of the calendar year.

Elsewhere...

AL EAST 

A look at some options for the Yankees

The Orioles are still shopping for a manager. Here are some candidates.

The Rays have some work to do at the upcoming winter meetings.

Troy Tulowitzki has recovered from two injury-plagued seasons, but the Jays are keeping their expectations in check.

AL CENTRAL

The Indians might be the most interesting team at the winter meetings.

If Seattle makes Carlos Santana available, the Twins would be a logical landing spot.

Newest Tiger Matt Moore is excited to return to a starter role.

The White Sox are fielding some interest in Jose Abreu

AL WEST

New Rangers manager Chris Woodward is making up for lost time.

Kyler Murray, a Heisman candidate and A's draft pick, has a big decision to make.

Some recently non-tendered players could be a fit for the Mariners.

NATIONAL LEAGUE 

In obtaining Paul Goldschmidt, the Cardinals finally have their big bat.