If Frank Thomas returns to the Sox, he would be guaranteed $6 million in 2004, at least $8 million in 2005 and a $3.5 million buyout after the 2005 season.
That’s $17.5 million guaranteed for the next two years.
Think any other team wants Thomas badly enough to exceed that?
Here are Thomas’ possible suitors, ranked in order of probability:
Anaheim: First baseman Scott Spiezio ($4.25 million in ’03) has filed for free agency, and the team is pledging to boost its payroll by $10 million.
Los Angeles: Dan Evans might want to reunite with Thomas, but because a sale of the team is pending, Evans might not be the GM a month from now.
Atlanta: Julio Franco is a free agent, and North Side villain Robert Fick might not be tendered a contract. And Thomas is a native of Columbus, Ga.
Baltimore: The Orioles will have as much as $25 million to spend, but they already have first baseman/DH David Segui at $7 million and could move Jay Gibbons to DH if they sign an outfielder.
Boston: First basemen Kevin Millar and David Ortiz are under contract. As is Manny Ramirez.
The Yankees: First baseman Nick Johnson is affordable and left-handed. DH Jason Giambi isn’t going anywhere after an off year and off-season surgery.
Seattle: Will pay first baseman John Olerud $7.7 million next year and is expected to bring back DH Edgar Martinez. The Mariners have little to spend.
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Edited by the Sports staff of RedEye.
