Though news of discussions has been quiet of late, the Boston Red Sox are believed to be "in the lead" in negotiations for free-agent outfielder Cody Ross, friends of the outfielder have told Buster Olney of ESPN:

Friends of Cody Ross believe BOS is in the lead in his neg. on 3-year deal. But sources say there haven't been new talks in last few days.

— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) November 27, 2012

Ross, 31, is also drawing interest from several other clubs, including the Phillies, Mariners, Tigers, Braves and Orioles. The veteran outfielder is reported to be seeking a deal in the range of three years and $25 million.

The Red Sox have made acquiring free-agent catcher/first baseman Mike Napoli their "No. 1 target", so talks with free-agent outfielders in general may be on the back-burner until Napoli signs. In addition to Ross, the Red Sox have already signed Jonny Gomes on a two-year deal and have had negotiations with former Yankee Nick Swisher.