Lackey to share spotlight at Writers Dinner!

Red Sox's offseason prize among attendees for annual event.


BOSTON -- The first standing ovation that John Lackey will receive as a member of the Red Sox will likely come at a dinner banquet instead of Fenway Park.

The right-hander, signed to a five-year, $82.5 million by the Sox on Dec. 16, will headline the attendees at the 71st annual Boston Baseball Writers Dinner, to be held on Jan. 14 at the Westin-Waterfront Hotel.

Always a staple on the Hot Stove calendar in Boston -- not to mention a symbol that Spring Training is drawing near -- this year's Writers Dinner will also have All-Star first baseman Kevin Youkilis at the head table, where he will receive the team's Most Valuable Player Award for 2009.

Bill James, the statistical pioneer who has worked for the Red Sox since 2002, will receive the Fuchs Award for his long and meritorious service to the game. Rockies manager Jim Tracy will make a special trip to Boston to be presented as the National League Manager of the Year.

A host of others will be at the dinner, including Red Sox manager Terry Francona, pitching coach John Farrell, hitting coach Dave Magadan, first-base coach Ron Johnson, top pitching prospect Casey Kelly and recently acquired outfielder Jeremy Hermida.

But the largest applause of the night will likely be saved for Lackey, the prized acquisition who hopes to be a big part of what could emerge into one of the best rotations in Red Sox history.

Tickets for the dinner are $150 and available by sending a check to Boston Chapter-BBWAA, PO Box 7346, Nashua NH, 03060.

There will be a silent auction during the cocktail hour, organized by the Ted Williams Museum. Former Red Sox will be on hand during the silent auction to sign autographs.