Adrian Beltre: a fit for the Sox?

Adrian Beltre's quest for  a major contract as of late has been well documented. Though the Rangers, A's and Angels have been reported to be interested, none of them have been willing to pay him what he wants (probably more than the Angel's 5 Year, $70 MM offer). This would be more than the contract he received from Seattle, who many have dubbed an overpay. However, according to Fangraphs' WAR values, he actually was UNDERPAYED by about $2 MM. After that, and an outstanding year with the Red Sox, the 31 year old (yes, he's only 31) deserves a big contract. And he would be a perfect fit for the Chicago White Sox. Currently, the Sox look to start either Dayan Viciedo or Brent Morel at 3B. Though both have upside, Beltre would be a major upgrade over them. He plays defense better than that of Morel, and his stats could see another jump in switching to US Cellular Field. He could very possibly match his .321/.365/.553 slash line if he stays in a hitter's ballpark, if not increasing his HR total of 28. This, along with his stellar defense, could very possibly be worth 6.5-7.5 WAR. If the Sox have the available resources, there is no reason they should not go above the Angels offer.

The question then becomes how much money the Sox can throw at him. After signing Adam Dunn, Paul Konerko, Jesse Crain and AJ Pierzynski, the Sox have $105 MM committed to their non-arbitration players. Following signing Carlos Quentin, Tony Pena and John Danks, they should be around $119 MM, a little less than their record payroll in 2008. Though Jerry Reinsdorf has spent a lot this year, it is doubtful he would want to add another $15 MM in average annual salary. That being said, it appears Jerry wants to go "all-in" this year, so he may. Otherwise, a good move would be trading Quentin and/or Mark Teahen. If this were to be done, Reinsdorf may be willing to sign Beltre, and the Sox would have a lineup fit to contend with the Red Sox and Yankees.

One argument against signing Beltre many make is that he only performs in a contract year. However, if one looks at his stats, this should quickly be dismissed. Though he has combined for 17.2 WAR in his contract years with the Red Sox and Dodgers, why would he not "try harder" in his contract year of 2009 with the Mariners? On top of that, it is not as if he disappeared in the other seasons. As stated before, he was very good with the Mariners despite being unable to hit the ball out of the park with as much ferocity in Safeco Field. His stellar defense has never slumped, and for all these reasons, should be signed by Kenny Williams.