Red Sox "in advanced conversations" with Hanley Ramirez

The Red Sox are engaged in "advanced conversations" with free-agent Hanley Ramirez and a "deal could come together quickly", according to a report from WEEI.com's Alex Speier. Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reported earlier today that the Sox were potentially moving towards an agreement with Ramirez, and that Boston is trying to sign both Ramirez and Pablo Sandoval.

Ramirez has been linked to the Mariners, Blue Jays, and Astros in addition to the Red Sox, with sources indicating that the Dodgers were still in play as well. It appears as though Boston is now the favorite to sign Ramirez, with the sides in contact about a long-term deal that would send Hanley back to his original organization.

With young options like Xander Bogaerts, Garin Cecchini and Deven Marrero on the left side of the infield, the potential additions of Ramirez and Sandoval make it seem like the Red Sox are looking to trade from their surplus in an effort to improve other parts of the team. Multiple reports have noted that Ramirez is willing to switch positions and could possibly take an outfield spot, making the Sox more likely to trade slugger Yoenis Cespedes at some point this offseason.

Though nothing is done at this point, it appears as though the Red Sox are going back to their big-spending ways, with eyes on Ramirez, Sandoval, and old friend Jon Lester. Dominoes are sure to fall fast with progress being made on deals with both Ramirez and Sandoval.