Report: Jon Lester to choose between Cubs, Giants
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Jon Lester is on the verge of choosing a new team, and the 30-year-old free agent has reportedly narrowed his list of potential destinations down to just two clubs, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.
Sources: Barring late change, Lester choosing between #Cubs, #SFGiants.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 8, 2014
Lester, who has also been pursued by the Los Angeles Dodgers and Boston Red Sox, is expected to choose a new team no later than Tuesday, ESPN's Buster Olney reported earlier. Though a decision appears imminent, one source told ESPN's Jerry Crasnick on Monday evening that the New York Yankees can't be eliminated as a possible destination. However, the baseball world could be waiting for his decision a bit longer:
Source: Lester decision could drag into Wednesday. Ownership involvement slowing things down for multiple teams
— Rob Bradford (@bradfo) December 9, 2014
Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington also addressed the rumor, stating he'll get the chance to meet with Lester's agents for one last pitch before the lefty makes a final decision.
A three-time All-Star, Lester reportedly received a six-year offer worth more than $135 million from the Cubs earlier this offseason, but it was speculated the veteran left-hander was waiting for a contract worth $150 million.
Lester enjoyed the finest season of his career in 2014, crafting a 2.46 ERA with a 1.10 WHIP over 32 starts between the Red Sox and Oakland Athletics.