Boston Red Sox Will Wait To Talk Contract With Jacoby Ellsbury

May 8, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury (2) catches a fly ball against the Minnesota Twins during the seventh inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /

In the past few years, the Boston Red Sox have attempted to sign Jacoby Ellsbury to a long-term deal. The two sides were continually unable to agree on a multi-year scenario which resulted in annual one year contracts, just to avoid arbitration.

Now, the 29-year-old outfielder is apparently more open to signing that long term deal but the Red Sox would prefer to wait until season end, this according to a report from WEEI.

Per Alex Speier:

"(Red Sox GM) Cherington suggested that the Sox expect that the team will not engage in contract talks with the 29-year-old until after the season."

For Ellsbury, the first quarter of the 2013 season has been an up and down process. He’s stealing bases at a much more frequent pace, one shy of eclipsing last seasons total of 13 (which he did in 74 games), but he’s struggling to actually get on base – currently hitting a paltry .249 with a .318 OBP.

There’s no reason to think regression though, at least not if you’re GM Ben Cherington, who says Ellsubry’s proven track record will result in a turn around:

"By far, the best outcome for all of us is for Jacoby to feel good, be productive in the leadoff spot. That helps him, helps us win games and I still think that’s going to happen.”"

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