LAS VEGAS -- Just back from a hallway conversation with A.J. Burnett's agent, Darek Braunecker.

Braunecker said it was unlikely Burnett would sign anywhere during the winter meetings, but he also said, "It's a possibility. I don't anticipate it at this point. It may be a phone call away."

So, while the Red Sox are within the top six in interest level for Burnett, according to Braunecker, it remains unlikely they would prevail for the righthander's services. Not to be repetitive, but the Sox do not make a practice of handing out large deals for free agent pitchers (especially ones going on 32 years old). They also don't have a real need for a front-line starting pitcher, or at least an expensive one.

"I've maintained for the last two years, if he wants five years, he's getting five years," Braunecker said.

Braunecker didn't have another meeting with the Sox scheduled, but he did say he anticipated speaking with the club at some point today. He declined to comment on how many teams had made actual offers to Burnett at this point.

The biggest of the criteria Burnett wants in his next team: "Winning," Braunecker said.