It's also possible, I suppose, that this is an intentional, coordinated leak that (a) helps the Sox by telling other pitchers that the team are moving forward, so if you want to expedite your consideration of their offer, you might want to do so now (not necessarily aimed at Lester, but the Sox are talking with multiple pitchers acc to BC), and (b) does Masterson a favor by telling other teams that the Sox are serious, so up your bids and/or prioritize JM or you might lose him.
A "you scratch our back" thing for a former, well-liked player. You never know. It is misinformation season, after all.
A "you scratch our back" thing for a former, well-liked player. You never know. It is misinformation season, after all.