Hiring the Red Sox manager will be (or should be) more than just solving a metric equation  —  People sometimes ask my opinion of sabermetrics.  —  I tell them I accept the concept.  I also hate it.  —  The use of advanced statistical data, better known as sabermetrics, is very much in Red Sox news these days.

Sources: Cubs pursuing Pujols, Fielder  —  The Cubs are pursuing both Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder, and not simply because the free-agent first basemen are difference-makers.  —  No, the Cubs also are acknowledging two emerging realities - a dwindling number of sluggers available …

Astros receive permission to interview Rays GM Friedman  —  The Astros have received permission to interview Tampa Bay Rays general manager Andrew Friedman, according to officials with knowledge of the organization's thinking.  —  Although the club has asked to interview “a handful” …

MLB Releases Info on 2011 Postseason Shares  —  A full Postseason share for the 2011 World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals totaled $323,169.98, while a full share for the American League Champion Texas Rangers amounted to $251,515.76, Major League Baseball announced today.

Source: Pirates aren't trading McCutchen  —  The Pirates have not entertained any trade offers for All-Star center fielder Andrew McCutchen, a high-ranking team source said tonight, and have no intention of doing so.  —  An ESPN report earlier today said the team would listen to offers for McCutchen this offseason.

Yankees' Curtis Granderson says new HGH test important to Major League Baseball  —  Yankees center fielder wants to swat doubt  —  Curtis Granderson may have finished fourth in MVP voting but he's tops with city kids on Monday as he shows up at PS 19 in Bronx to celebrate renovation …

Johnny Narron joins brother on Brewers staff  —  New hitting coach reunited with bench coach, replaces Sveum  —  MILWAUKEE — The Brewers have found a hitting coach to replace the departed Dale Sveum, and it's a familiar name.  —  Johnny Narron, a former Brewers Minor League coach and manager …

Unhappy with Ronny Paulino, NY Mets looking for new backup catcher  —  Mets looking to replace backup backstop on bench and behind plate  —  Mets manager Terry Collins and catcher Ronny Paulino are on same side in this discussion, but do not always see eye-to-eye , and that could be one reason …

SPORTS BASEBALL  —  Jays target closer Bell  —  The Toronto Blue Jays have targeted closer Heath Bell as a possible off-season signing.  (GETTY IMAGES)  —  The U.S. Thanksgiving sales have concluded.  —  Now, it's time for executives to move into high gear leading into next month's baseball's winter meetings in Dallas.

Your Morning Phil: Marmol, Buehrle, Astros  —  Talking baseball while wondering if the Bears are doomed without Jay Cutler: 1.  With the winter meetings a week away and free-agent prices still high, teams are working to fill their needs through trades.  According to sources …

Wade, Smith disappointed to be leaving Astros  —  HOUSTON — Tal Smith and Ed Wade, both just dismissed from their front-office roles with the Astros, expressed disappointment Monday that they won't be around to see the club's rebuilding effort to the finish line.