Sox Acquire Mariner Mike Carp As First Base and Left Field Insurance

The Boston Red Sox acquired 26-year olds Mike Carp from the Seattle Mariners for cash and a player to be named later. Carp, a 6′ 2″, 210 pound first baseman/left fielder who has has been with the Mariners since 2009, was optioned earlier this month by Seattle.

Jul 28, 2012; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Mike Carp (20) hits a RBI sacrifice fly ball against the Kansas City Royals during the eighth inning at Safeco Field. Seattle defeated Kansas City 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Carp provides insurance for two of Boston’s thinnest defensive spots. Carp can back up Mike Napoli at first base if necessary and could platoon with Jonny Gomes and Daniel Nava in left field, especially if Ryan Kalish – recently placed in Boston’s 60 day DL – doesn’t bounce back from his shoulder surgery.

“It’s definitely a better opportunity for me than staying in Seattle as far as their needs go and my chance to get as many at-bats as possible,” Carp told The Seattle Times’ Geoff Baker.

“It’s really exciting,” Carp said. “I have a chance to go to a great organization and should really get a chance to play. I’m looking forward to showing them what I can do.”

In 2011, Carp hit a promising .276 with 12 homers in a career-high 79 games but dipped to .213 in 59 games in 2012. Carp has a career slash line of .255/.327/.413/.740.