By Peter Abraham, Globe Staff
At last, good news for Red Sox fans. The San Diego Tribune reported today that the Padres have held discussions about acquiring John Lackey.
The Red Sox would have to pick up most of the remaining $45.75 million remaining on his contract. Lackey’s deal also calls for a $500,000 payment if he is traded.
Lackey was 12-12 with a 6.41 earned run average this season. But he had his best seasons under Padres manager Bud Black, the former Angels pitching coach. In spacious Petco Park and in a new environment, perhaps Lackey would flourish again.
For the Red Sox, trading Lackey would break up the Tippling Trio and create virtually instant euphoria among the fan base. That could be worth $40 million.
