David

Wells

Wells never should have been placed on the list, as he was never scheduled to pitch during his absence anyway.

Wells’ deal with Boston will become official after the lefty undergoes a physical on Tuesday.

Wells and Towers met on Wednesday. “We had a very good evening at my home,” Towers said. “We talked about our team, and we talked about a contract. We had a good dialogue.” The Padres and Wells have discussed a one-year deal with an option and a guaranteed buyout for 2006, allowing the team to spend a little less in 2005.

Wells could give the Padres a chance to match any offers he receives from Philadelphia or Los Angeles. The Yankees have yet to show any interest in bringing back the left-hander.

If Boston signs Wells, it’s clear they’d no longer have room for both Pedro Martinez and Carl Pavano alongside Curt Schilling, Bronson Arroyo and Tim Wakefield in the rotation.

Wells has made no secret of his dislike for Fenway Park, an issue that has probably stopped Boston from pursuing him in the past. The Padres and Dodgers are also competing for Wells. The Phillies should be out of the race after signing Jon Lieber.

According to the ESPN reports, the deal would guarantee Wells $8 million for one year, but if he makes 31 starts he would be guaranteed $13 million. We assume that figure is for two years. Gammons says the Red Sox are targeting Wells in order to leave themselves the flexibility to pursue Edgar Renteria.

Wells is not expected to miss more than just the one start. Jeff Weaver could move up a day and start Friday, though George Steinbrenner said yesterday that he’d prefer Jose Contreras in the rotation. Shame for Wells owners that he’ll miss a start against the Tigers. Consider using Contreras if he gets the opportunity.

The Orioles, Mussina’s former team, have the honor of trying to prevent the milestones.

Mike Mussina pitched well yesterday, so he’s the likely choice to pitch Sunday on four days’ rest. David Wells would start Game 5.