Red Sox reach out to free agent Pablo Sandoval

The Red Sox and Pablo Sandoval, on paper, seem like a good fit. The team needs a third baseman and Sandoval, a free agent, could be looking to cash in and find a new home. With the start of free agency on Tuesday, there at least appears to be interest on one side. The Red Sox reached out to free agent Pablo Sandoval and his representation yesterday, according to a source, to express their interest in the former World Series MVP.

Sandoval, a three-time World Series champion, is one of the most attractive free agents on the market this offseason. The 28-year-old third baseman had a solid 2014 season, hitting .279 with 16 home runs, 73 RBIs and a .324 on-base percentage after starting the season slow. Sandoval, who was nominated at third base for a Gold Glove award, posted 3.0 wins above replacement.

According to multiple reports, Sandoval rejected the San Francisco Giants' qualifying offer, meaning he is now tied to draft pick compensation should a team other than defending World Series champions sign him this offseason. While there is significant concern about Sandoval's weight (he is listed at 245, but MLB height and weight listings are notoriously unreliable), some agents (not connected to negotiations) believe that Sandoval could receive a four or five year deal on the open market ranging from $15 to $18 million annually.