Sufferin' succotash! Sox sign shortstop Scutaro

Last night, I kind of dismissed reports that the Red Sox had Marco Scutaro work out for them. I thought it was just due diligence. I was shocked - and disappointed - this morning to see he is now our shortstop for the next two years, keeping the position warm until 19-year-old Jose Iglesis is ready for the major leagues.

Statheads are split on this one: Rob Neyer approves; FanGraphs, however, suggests that the Fenway faithful won't be pleased when Scutaro plays like he can, not as if he is the starting shortstop of one for one of the game's premier franchises.

Count me guilty as charged, although I'll give him credit for chasing a trophy instead of the dollar:

"There was a team that was making a real good offer, but I can say this, I took a little less money just to come here, to have a chance to win a ring," he said.

I also hadn't considered what this deal means for Jed Lowrie, once considered a solid prospect:

Where does this leave Lowie?

It's up to him at this point. He can win a bench job in spring training and push for playing time. Theo Epstein chose his words carefully, saying the Sox still believe in Lowie. But actions speak loudly in this case.

Christine will take delight in calling my new shortstop Scooter.

One more Placido Polanco note: I love the anecdote about how his son still wore his Phillies jerseys throughout his tenure on the Tigers, but I'm not buying it. The kid is 6 years old, how would a jersey from four years ago still fit?