This and That

PATRIOTS

-The Patriots re-upped offensive tackle Nick Kazcur to a four year pact. The 30-year old Kazcur has become a reliable right-tackle in our solid offensive line. Starting 29 of a possible 32 games the past two years, Kazcur is more heralded for his run-blocking ability. The total money of the salary is $16 million with $3.5 of it guaranteed, so it seems as if the Pats got a good buy. Those of you who think this name is familiar are reminded of how Kazcur was arrested with possession of hundreds of oxycodone pills in a drug sting in 2008, but later got off of it for snitching and helping the DEA find the dealer. Obviously the Patriots are content that is all in the past and are operating business as usual. With a possible un-capped year looming, the Patriots will turn their attention to a number of players with similar expiring contracts headlined by Wilfork, Seymour, Mankins, Gostkowski, and many more.

RED SOX

-The most recent word is that Billy Wagner will not be coming to the Red Sox. Wagner "does not want to have to impress" the Red Sox coming off of surgery. Why wouldn't he want to?; sounds pretty weak if you ask me. He did say he did not want to set up, but he would be more of a situational lefty. Apparently he is content in pitching in a low-pressure environment for the rest of the year. The Red Sox cannot ask for a physical and have been told by Wagner's camp that part of the deal would have to include the Sox not picking up his option or offering his salary arbitration. Wagner pitched a scoreless inning striking out two today against the Phillies The Sox have until one o'clock tomorrow to work something out with Wagner and the Mets.
-Daisuke Matsuzaka is on the road back to the big club, and he will have time to prove himself worthy this season. After pitching three innings while striking out four and allowing one hit for the Gulf Coast League Sox affiliate, Dice-K will pitch in Double-A Portland on Thursday followed by one more tune-up in Pawtuckett if all goes well.
-The Sox game is about to start. I'm in Virginia for the rest of the week, so I will do my best to keep you all updated. Here's tonight's starting nine:

Ellsbury - CF
Pedroia - 2B
Martinez - C
Youkilis - 1B
Ortiz - DH
Bay - LF
Lowell - 3B
Drew - RF
Gonzalez - SS