Ever since Boston Red Sox GM Theo Epstein traded away Nomar Garciaparra in 2004, they have had a revolving door at shortstop. In 2006, Alex Gonzalez played shortstop for the Red Sox and committed just seven errors in 111 games.
Fast forward to 2009 as the Red Sox acquired Gonzalez from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for a player to be named later and/or cash considerations. The Red Sox will be responsible for the remaining part of the $5.375 million owed to him. Gonzalez’ contract has a team option for $6 million in 2010 with a $500,000 buyout.
Gonzalez hit .255 with 9 home runs and 50 RBIs for the Red Sox in 2006. In 68 games with the Reds this season, Gonzalez is hitting just .210 with 3 home runs and 26 RBIs. We all know the Red Sox didn’t acquire him for his bat though. He’s made 6 errors for the Reds this season.
According to Boston.com, Gonzalez will join the team in Texas tomorrow and speculation is that newly acquired Chris Woodward will be released.
The Red Sox had hoped Jed Lowrie would be the answer to their woes at shortstop but he went back on the DL with numbness in his forearm shortly after his return from the disabled list after undergoing surgery on wrist. Nick Green has struggled recently at the plate as well and his fielding isn’t exactly the best to be an every day player.
Gonzalez should provide stability on the defensive side as the Red Sox head down the stretch run here in the 2009 season.
Update: According to Rob Bradford of WEEI.com, the Red Sox have sent minor league shortstop Kris Negron to the Reds in exchange for Gonzalez. Negron was playing for the Single-A Salem Red Sox of the Carolina League. The Red Sox will also get $1.1 million in cash from the Reds as well.
