The Red Sox, led by team president and CEO Larry Lucchino, were expected to meet with agent Scott Boras last night about Johnny Damon, who was expected to be on hand as well. The free agent?s possible presence at the negotiations is unusual, but the Sox leadoff hitter is anything but typical, and his importance to the team?s fortunes is significant. Damon is looking for a seven-year contract, which has prompted considerable skepticism. Boras, who feels a seven-year deal is reasonable, is trying to generate interest in Damon from other teams, but there are indications, just as there were with Jason Varitek last year, that both the Red Sox and Damon want to get a deal done. That does not make a deal imminent, but so far, no other team has been identified as being in the running for Damon. The Yankees would be interested in a three-year deal for Damon, and the Detroit Tigers are another team to watch. They have money to spend, a position to fill and a strong desire for an impact player.