The Red Sox have taken a different approach to free agency this offseason. In recent years, Theo Epstein has spent freely, but this winter new general manager Ben Cherington has been cautious. "Ben is listening with free agents, but that's it so far," said one agent, who asked not be identified. "I don't think it's an act, either. They're hoping somebody falls to them and that may be it." Besides Josh Beckett, Clay Buchholz and Jon Lester, the Red Sox do not have a reliable starting pitcher on the roster. There are internal options to fill the two remaining spots in the rotation but outside help is likely to be needed, too.