Figured this would be an interesting topic for discussion.
I think Lowell is a break in the practices this FO has set out to achieve - namely not giving multi year contracts to older, more injury prone players. When Lowell won the 2007 WS MVP, in the wake of ARod opting out, it seemed the decision was made for the FO as to who their 3B would be in 2007.
I think the FO may have let the emotions of the fans dictate this signing.
What say you?