"The Red Sox are among the teams interested in Mets outfielder Carlos Beltran. But some in the industry anticipate that Beltran will insist on his using his no-trade clause to remain in the National League.

So, Boston officials are pursuing other alternatives to fill their need for an outfield bat. One option is Kansas City right fielder Jeff Francoeur.

The Red Sox have inquired about Francoeur's availability, multiple sources told FOXSports.com; one person briefed on the discussions said they were of an "exploratory" nature. The Royals have a mutual option on Francoeur for next season, so they are under no pressure to move him."