The Boston Red Sox and New York Mets have come to terms on a trade for lefty reliever Billy Wagner after the Red Sox placed a waiver claim on him.
The Red Sox will receive Wagner in exchange for two players to be named later. In exchange for Wagner waiving his no-trade clause, the Red Sox also have agreed not to pick up Wagner’s 2010 option. But the Red Sox can offer him salary arbitration next year and will get two draft picks, since Wagner projects to be a Type A free agent, if he declines arbitration.
Also according to Jon Heyman via Twitter, the Red Sox have agreed to pay the rest of Wagner’s 2009 salary, which Heyman says is around $2 million. The Red Sox will also be on the hook for a $1 million buyout on his 2010 option.
It’s going to be interesting to see how Wagner slides into the bullpen. As we know, Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon has been very outspoken about Wagner joining the team although he has tried to clear the air.
Wagner is coming off of Tommy John surgery and has pitched in two games for the Mets this season. In two innings of work, he has walked one and struck out four.
Most likely Enrique Gonzalez will either be designated for assignment or optioned back to Pawtucket to make room for Wagner. The Red Sox will need to make another move tomorrow when Tim Wakefield returns to the rotation.
