I wish they kept Beltre too. Watching him at 3rd last season was great, and he hit damn well too. They could of gotten rid of Youkilis and I quite honestly wouldn't of given a damn. He's always come across as a douchebag. Always seemed like a high tempered crybaby. Less people like him and Lackey on the team would benefit the sox greatly. I feel the same way about Beckett too, with his damn personal catcher and all that garbage.
And I don't think Beltre is a JD Drew type of character at all. He seemed to get along fine with everyone last year. He was quiet, sure, but not everyone has to be the center of attention like Pedroia.