The Yankees have told A-Rod and his agent, Scott Boras, that they have no plans to become part of the bidding process if Rodriguez elects to become a free agent, but multiple baseball sources believe the Red Sox will make a huge push to add the two-time American League MVP if he becomes available.

The Red Sox nearly brought A-Rod to Boston in December 2003, but the deal fell through because Rodriguez's contract would have had to be restructured in order for it to happen, prompting the union to reject it.

One baseball source told the New York Daily News that Red Sox team president Larry Lucchino has wanted Rodriguez in a Boston uniform ever since the original deal collapsed, even after he was traded to the team's hated rival.

"Lucchino has never stopped wanting him," the source said.

Boston would have little trouble coming up with the money to pay Rodriguez, who likely will command a six- to eight-year contract worth $180 million-$240 million.

Curt Schilling will be a free agent at the end of the year, so the Red Sox could save $13 million by letting him leave and going with one of their young pitchers in his place. Third baseman Mike Lowell is also a free agent, slicing another $9 million off the payroll.

At the end of 2008, the Red Sox will also free up another $20 million, as Manny Ramirez's hefty contract finally will expire.

Rodriguez has said he won't negotiate during the season, leaving the Yankees a narrow window after the season ends to come to terms on a new deal before A-Rod's opt-out date. A-Rod has 10 days after the end of the World Series — Nov. 10 at the latest — to opt out.