Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

Martinez will serve as Jason Varitek's backup and can also play first base and designated hitter. That will allow Varitek and third baseman Mike Lowell more rest in the second half so they will hopefully be healthy for September and beyond.

Epstein talked with Red Sox manager Terry Francona and pitching coach John Farrell about how Martinez would be used in the lineup moving forward.

"With his makeup, it should be a smooth process," said Epstein. "He's conscientious and is the ultimate teammate who cares about winning."

The biggest head-turning move by the Sox was the acquisition of Kotchman in exchange for LaRoche, who had just joined the Sox last week. Epstein felt that in order for LaRoche to be effective, he would have to be a constant presence in the lineup. The acquisition of Martinez meant that wasn't going to happen, and Epstein felt that Kotchman would be a better fit off the bench.

Adding Martinez could also mean a change for backup catcher George Kottaras. Once Martinez and Kotchman report on Saturday, the club will have to make more roster moves. Kottaras will likely be the odd man out.

Tim Wakefield is on the disabled list with a lower-back strain and there's no timetable for his return. Kottaras has done a good job serving as the veteran knuckleballer's batterymate this season, but has struggled offensively with a .224 average and only one homer and nine RBI in 36 games.

There is no doubt that Epstein inquired about both Halladay and Gonzalez in the last few days. Both the Blue Jays and the Padres wanted a group of Red Sox prospects that included Clay Buchholz, Casey Kelly, Daniel Bard, Lars Anderson and Ryan Westmoreland.

Epstein was willing to part ways with some combination of prospects, but in the end he added a big piece and kept the development system intact. From the beginning the Red Sox were reluctant to part ways with some of their top prospects. What we did learn is Epstein is not afraid to incorporate some of them into a possible deal now or in the future.

Some proposed deals included five or six prospects. If those deals had been made, Epstein said, he still believed the organization's development system would have depth.
"We feel great with what remains in our system and our ability to flow players young players up to the big-league level, and/or use them in deals. It hurts to give up players you believe in at any time."

There was no way Epstein would have moved the organization's top prospects for an impact rental player in the short term. With Martinez under contract until after the 2010 season, the Red Sox can focus on pitching during the offseason.

"Having him for all of next year, and having him fit into next year's club really well, is a big part of this," said Epstein.

Since the Blue Jays did not trade Halladay, it's a good bet they will try to move him during the offseason. It's also a good bet the Sox will be involved.