That is my understanding. Otherwise, why the bidding war to earn the right to try to sign him. If he doesn't sign, Boston doesn't have to pay a dime of the infamous $51 million.

While the Red sox end up with egg on their face if they don't sign him, Matsuzaka doesn't play major league ball in 2007 and Seibu is out of the cash it desperately needs.

Therefore, Boras, if your boy is serious about pitching in the majors, get the deal done. My gut feeling is that Boston has already put an acceptable package together, and Boras is waiting to see to what extent they'll sweeten it before the deadline.

From the beginning this negotiation had the makings of an eleventh hour agreement. It is in both parties' interest to characterize the offers and counter-offers as being far apart. The deal will be done because it has to get done.