July 2, 2008 at 7:55 AM
2008 Fenway Summer Classic
On Tuesday the Red Sox held what is believed to be the first annual "Fenway Summer Classic", where the team invited several of its unsigned 2008 draftees in for a workout and a scrimmage at Fenway Park. Most of the players arrived on Monday, presumably to go through physical exams and to take a tour of Boston. Among the players in attendance were Casey Kelly (Rd 1), Derrik Gibson (Rd 2), Pete Hissey (Rd 4), Tyler Wilson (Rd 13), Jordan Cooper (Rd 17), Anthony DeSclafani (Rd 22), Matt Marquis (Rd 28), John Hernandez (Rd 38), John Killen (Rd 43), and Kyle Stroup (Rd 50). Each of these players reportedly resumed contract negotiations with the team yesterday, and those talks will continue today. The fact that several of these players came to Boston at the very least reflects some motivation on their behalf to sign with the Sox, especially sine the team is not allowed to pay for the players to come to Boston or reimburse them for any expenses. The deadline to sign all unsigned picks is August 15th at 11:59 pm. Another unsigned pick, Tim Federowicz (Rd 7), has reportedly agreed to terms with the team and will report to Lowell after the finalization of his contract. In other signing news, Boston has reportedly come to terms with about twelve international free agents, which signings will become official today - the first day of the international signing period. Expect more news on those signings in the coming days.