The Red Sox have signed Willie Harris to a one-year, split contract that would pay him a base salary of $650,000 if he makes the Major League roster. Harris will go to camp as a non-roster invitee, but he figures to have a strong chance to make the team.
Wow. Hard to believe there wasn't another team out there who believed Willie Harris was worth a guaranteed contract. There's little doubt in my mind that he'll make the Boston club, but I'm astounded by the collective lack of interest in Harris by the other 28 teams.
For a team that currently has gaping holes at SS and CF, Willie is a nice little insurance policy to have. Even though I wouldn't want him starting regularly at either of those positions, he can fill in at both if needed.
On a not-unrelated note, Theo Epstein is back with the Red Sox. Wedding in June.