PAWTUCKET -- His Los Angeles Dodgers equipment bags remain packed and next to his corner locker in the cozy confines of the Pawtucket Red Sox clubhouse.

The Boston Red Sox claimed first baseman Hee-Seop Choi off waivers from the Dodgers on March 24, but he hasn't made it to the bigs. At the start of the year there were questions regarding who would be the everyday first baseman in Boston, and obviously Kevin Youkilis has answered that in a big way, switching corner positions successfully.

During spring training, Boston general manager Theo Epstein told the Journal: "We have liked Choi for a long time and view this as an opportunity to acquire him when his value is down a bit. We like his power, his patience and his hands at first base. Choi provides depth for us at first base and, in a way, third base as well, considering Kevin Youkilis' ability to play both positions."

So, where has this $725,000 security blanket been?

Hurt.

Even before he went on the disabled list July 7 with a knee sprain, Choi wasn't having a season deserving of a call-up. Realistically, if he was healthy, it wouldn't really matter what numbers he was putting up. The fact is he would be in Boston right now because of all the injuries.

One thing for sure, David Ortiz wouldn't have played first base on Friday. Choi may not be the solution to the Red Sox' problems, but he could be an answer.

Red Sox vice president of player personnel Ben Cherington had a closed-door meeting with Choi and PawSox manger Ron Johnson late Friday night, and Choi said yesterday that the meeting went well and he understands what is expected of him.

He rehab has been slow going, but he began to take swings two weeks ago. He said after yesterday's PawSox game that he hopes to be back in the lineup next week.

"I'm much better," said Choi. "I'm going to try my knee here and if it feels good then I'll be ready to go. Boston needs corner help and I want to play in Boston."

Choi is a pleasant guy who has gone about his business very quietly. There's nothing bitter about him, but sometimes it can be a sensitive issue when it comes to a major-league veteran camping out in the minors.

In 2002 he became the first Korean-born player to appear in a major-league game; he's played 363 games with the Cubs, Marlins and Dodgers. He's accumulated a .240 average with 40 homers and 120 RBI during that stretch, and Boston could use him right now.

He started the season in extended spring training with a hamstring injury and arrived at McCoy on a rehab assignment. When that was completed, the Sox officially optioned him to Pawtucket and he's been here ever since. Before his recent stint on the DL, he had a .207 average with 8 homers and 27 RBI in 66 games.

While it seems as if he's in his own little world, he's the only one who knows what he needs to accomplish if he wants to be on the Boston Red Sox radar screen soon.

The Sox could desperately use his services. His bags are packed and he's ready to go, but he'll have to get healthy first. By that time, however, he may not be needed.

jmcdonal@projo.com / (401) 277-7340