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Wells update

David Wells has told the Red Sox that he wants to pitch tonight if a deal hasn't been struck by game time. The Red Sox are likely to pitch Lenny DiNardo, however.

A "showdown" with Wells, who wants to earn as many bonus incentives as possible, could be avoided if and when Theo Epstein pulls the trigger on a deal in the next couple of hours.

As of a few minutes ago, the Padres and Dodgers were still formulating final offers. The Padres appeared to have the edge considering they are willing to give up Triple-A catcher George Kattoras and San Diego is also Wells' preference.

Don't rule out another team or two coming out of the blue at the last minute with a strong package. St. Louis is very interested and have already discussed a package of players and Cincinnati GM Wayne Krivsky is going all out and therefore would covet Wells.

There is an outside shot that the Mets or Phillies could enter the picture. While sources close to Wells indicate that he might say yes to a deal with the Mets, the Cardinals, Reds and Phillies might be a tough sell for the burly left-hander.