For outfielder Jeremy Hermida and relievers Ramon Ramirez and Manny Delcarmen, the process promises to be a relatively hum-drum experience, even if they don't strike deals with the team before the deadline.

For Jonathan Papelbon, however, the situation will give us another window into his longterm future with the Red Sox -- or lack thereof.

As Rob Bradford pointed out yesterday in a relatively analytical piece on WEEI.com, Papelbon could easily become the first player in Epstein's tenure to take the Red Sox through an actual arbitration hearing, something that is common for other franchises. Based on some of Papelbon's other recent comments, it wouldn't be shocking to hear he will stew over whatever perceived lowball offer the Red Sox make, even if it falls in line with the salarries of other successful closers.

Contractually, Paps is under Red Sox control through the end of 2011, but he's looking for a long-term deal that would pay him substantially more than the $6.25 million he made last season. He also has been reportedly unhappy with his salary situation dating back to at least spring 2008.

If he's still grumbling afterward, however, 2010 could very well be his last full season in Boston. The Sox could trade him before he becomes a free agent if they think he'll be difficult to sign to a contract they consider reasonably priced -- and it says here that there never going to give a closer a multi-year deal worth $10 million per season.

In some ways, I feel like I'm watching a train wreck in slow motion when it comes to Papelbon's situation. Surely I'm not alone, right?