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But there is no guarantee that Lowell will be back with the Red Sox in 2008. Not when the Yankees' Alex Rodriguez, another third baseman, could become a free agent, too. The Red Sox were enamored with Rodriguez when they tried to acquire him from the Texas Rangers in 2003, and those feelings could resurface.

While Lowell is focused on helping the Red Sox clinch the American League East, he, like those fans chanting in Chicago, occasionally wonders if he will be back next season. Ortiz, one of the most powerful voices on the team, has said the Red Sox should re-sign Lowell.

"I'd be lying if I said I never thought about, but I'm not consumed by it," Lowell said. "I know I'm going to sign somewhere next year. I obviously have my preferences. We'll see what happens."

Although Rodriguez has three years and $81 million left on his 10-year, $252 million contract, he is expected to exercise a clause to opt out of the deal and become a free agent. The Yankees will likely offer Rodriguez an extension in the 15-day period after the World Series when they can negotiate with him exclusively. But they have said they will not try to sign him as a free agent.

If Rodriguez becomes a free agent and the Yankees stick by their public comments and do not pursue him, the Red Sox would be one of the teams trying to sign him. With the Yankees out of the picture, the Los Angeles Angels may be the favorites to corral Rodriguez for a whopping price tag.

The Yankees could end up trying to sign Lowell as a replacement. Lowell, who would want at least a three-year deal, began his career with the Yankees and played briefly for the 1998 team that won 125 games and a World Series title. He is no A-Rod, but he is a cheaper alternative.

"I'm not stressing over it at all," Lowell said. "I think I'm in a good position."

Not even Lowell figured that he would knock in more runs than Ortiz (88) and Ram