by Ken Rosenthal

The Angels are out of the Mark Teixeira sweepstakes.

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The Red Sox did not necessarily end their bid for Teixeira when owner John Henry said the team "is not going to be a factor" in the negotiations.

The Angels' decision, however, is more final, the source said.

Team spokesman Tim Mead confirmed to The Associated Press that the Angels have withdrawn their offer.

Keeping Teixeira, 28, was the Angels' top priority. The team now figures to explore other free-agent pursuits, including the possible signing of left-handed closer Brian Fuentes as a replacement for the departed Francisco Rodriguez.

Without Teixeira, the Angels could install Kendry Morales at first base. Their other possible offensive targets include Manny Ramirez, Adam Dunn and Milton Bradley.

The Angels are believed to have offered Teixeria an eight-year deal in the range of $160 million. However, Teixeira wants to return east for family reasons, according to major-league sources.

The withdrawal of the Angels, then, does not figure to change the basic dynamics of the negotiations.

The Red Sox remain the favorite, despite their recent posturing. The Nationals could end up the high bidder, and Teixeira's hometown team, the Orioles, also are a factor. The Yankees, meanwhile, lurk on the periphery.

Teixeira helped elevate the Angels' offense after the team acquired him from the Braves on July 30, posting a batting average/on-base/ slugging line of .358/.449/.632 in 54 games. He also went 7-for-15 with an RBI in the Angels' Division Series loss to the Red Sox.