Uncle Floyd, III

Well, surprises abound. The Red Sox did not tendor Brian Daubach a contract, thereby making him a free agent.

Theo Epstein says that the move "doesn't change Jeremy's (Giambi's) situation or the way we see first base. Again, Jeremy has a chance to be part of the solution at first base,'' Epstein said. ``If not, he'll be the designated hitter.''

I had speculated that Giambi would start in left, but it sounds as if the Sox are expecting Manny Ramirez to play there more regularly next year. By the way, he hasn't played as many as 100 games in the outfield since 1999. Giambi will be tried at first and, that failing, DH.

Boston claims to still be in contact with Daubach but are keeping their options open what with all of the holiday bargains on the market.