Various published reports have the Sox pursuing former Red Sox infielder and current free agent Bill Mueller. On the surface that seems curious, considering the Sox already have all their starting infield spots filled. Paul Konerko just signed on for five years at first base, and Tadahito Iguchi, Juan Uribe and Joe Crede round out one of the best defensive infields in the majors. So why would the Sox look into Mueller, who will be 35 years old by Opening Day 2006?

Apparently, Joe Crede’s chronic lower back problems have the Sox somewhat concerned about his ability to play every day. This quote from GM Ken Williams sheds a little light on that:

"There's one school of thought [Crede] will be OK and another we have to get some insurance," Williams said. "It's still early in the off-season."

Mueller is said to be looking for a full time starting job, but his ability to play 3B, 2B and 1B would guarantee him plenty of at bats in the Sox rotation, especially considering Ozzie Guillen’s preference to give his regulars frequent rest. More than just “insurance,” Mueller is a former batting champ who hits from both sides of the plate and owns a career.373 OBP, making him an ideal candidate to bat second in the Sox line up. If Crede, Iguchi, Konerko or Jim Thome suffers an injury, Mueller could step right in and take their everyday role. Teams like the Twins and Giants are reportedly interested in signing Mueller to play every day, but the if the Sox super sub role could net him enough playing time to seriously consider Chicago.

The two biggest criteria for this super sub infield role are versatility to play at least three infield positions and the bat handling ability (high OBP, ability to hit and run and bunt) to bat second in the line up. Mueller fits the bill and would be a very smart move for the Sox. Padres’ infielder Mark Loretta, rumored to be available, is another player that would excel in this role.

One other wildcard possibility: Nomar Garciaparra. It sounds shocking at first, and it’s a long shot at best, but given Nomar’s affection for Chicago and inability to stay healthy playing shortstop everyday, the Sox position might be an intriguing choice for him. He could rotate between 3B, SS, 2B, 1B, DH and even OF, getting several starts per week but enough rest to avoid injuries. Williams had interest in Garciaparra in the past (there was almost a Maggs for Nomar deal two years ago) but depending on how the market plays out, Nomar is most likely to get a more lucrative (read: higher paying) offer elsewhere.

Still, since “It’s still early in the off-season” is code for “I’m not done assembling this team,” you never know what Ken Williams has up his sleeve. The only this that’s for sure is that he’ll leave no stone unturned.