Red Sox rumors: Talks with Cody Ross gaining momentum

Contract talks between the Boston Red Sox and outfielder Cody Ross have gained "momentum," reports Rob Bradford of WEEI.com:

According to a source familiar with the negotiations, contract talks between the Red Sox and outfielder Cody Ross have gained "some momentum." Ross will be eligible for free agency five days after the conclusion of the World Series.

The Red Sox did not present Ross with a formal contract offer during the regular season, though they have publically expressed interest in retaining him. Ross has also said he’s open to returning for the Red Sox, though playing for a winner is his top priority.

Ross joined the Red Sox last winter on a one-year, $3 million contract. Since then, his value has increased considerably thanks to an impressive 2012 campaign.

Over 476 at-bats the 31-year-old hit .267/.326/.481 with 34 doubles and 22 home runs. Some analysts expect him to command a deal in the range of the three-year, $21 million agreement Josh Willingham signed with the Minnesota Twins last offseason.

Ross has spent nine years at the major league level, hitting at a combined clip of .262/.324/.460.