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Report: Lester not expected to sign soon

Bob Stanton / USA TODAY Sports

Jon Lester has stressed that finding a place where he's comfortable is more important to him than commanding the biggest contract possible as a free agent.

The 30-year-old, one of the top pitchers available this winter, is also prepared to take his time determining which team best suits him.

Despite meeting with at least three clubs already this offseason, Lester is not expected to sign soon, one source familiar with the negotiations told WEEI's Rob Bradford.

Lester has reportedly already received a contract offer from the Chicago Cubs worth upwards of $135 million, while Boston Red Sox owner John Henry said Tuesday the club is prepared to exceed the luxury tax threshold to reunite with the three-time All-Star.

"He's been a huge part of what we've accomplished here and I think when we went to see him, a large part of our presentation was finishing that legacy he started," Henry said. "We're hopeful he'll do that.''

Lester also met earlier this month with the Atlanta Braves and is expected to meet next week with the San Francisco Giants, a club that should have some payroll flexibility after failing to re-sign third baseman Pablo Sandoval.

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