Red Sox rumors: David Ortiz, Cody Ross, Daisuke Matsuzaka

Boston Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington has begun talks with designated hitter David Ortiz and outfielder Cody Ross regarding new contracts, reports Michael Silverman of the Boston Herald:

Cherington: #RedSox talking to Ortiz and Ross about new deals. Both are free agents next season.

— Michael Silverman (@MikeSilvermanBB) October 3, 2012

Both Ross and Ortiz are pending free agents, and each player has expressed interest in returning to the Red Sox. While Cherington and the Red Sox have reached out to Ross and Ortiz, the same cannot be said of its other free agents, including right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka.

Ortiz has spent the past ten seasons in Boston, and he has said publically that he’s hoping to register at least two more with the club. The 36-year-old is targeting a two-year contract this winter, but he’s not interested in anything beyond that.

While this may seem to be an excessive commitment for an aging DH, Ortiz was one of Boston’s most productive hitters yet again this season. Over 324 at-bats he hit .318/.415/.611 with 26 doubles and 23 home runs.

2012 was Ross’ first season with the Red Sox, but he’s certainly endeared himself to the organization with his impressive campaign. Over 476 at-bats he hit .267/.326/.481 with 34 doubles and 22 home runs.

Like Ortiz, Ross has also expressed interest in re-signing with the Red Sox. His primary goal is reaching an agreement with a contender this winter, and he could be in line for something in the ballpark of the three-year, $21 million deal Josh Willingham signed with the Minnesota Twins last offseason.