Why the Red Sox Should Acquire Another Outfielder
With the news this week that Carl Crawford has had wrist surgery and could miss the start of the 2012 season acquiring a reliable outfielder should now rank at the top of the Red Sox list. Right field was already a question after the trade of Josh Reddick. The Red Sox cannot really count on Ryan Sweeney to be the number one guy (although he could turn out to be). The only outfield position that is set is center field with Jacoby Ellsbury.
Now that free agency is winding down there aren’t many options for the Red Sox to choose from, but they do need to highly consider making a move with both the left and right field positions very uncertain for opening day. Here are a few possibilities for the Red Sox to consider:
Spilborghs played right field for the Rockies last season hitting .210 with three home runs and 22 RBIs in 98 games. The Red Sox were said to have shown some interest in the right-handed bat at the trading deadline last season. While he might not be a big name, he would give the Red Sox some insurance in the outfield and could potentially compete with Sweeney for the starting job. He likely would be an inexpensive signing.
The left-fielder played 2011 with the Giants and hit .240 with 14 home runs and 52 RBIs. Ross has been in the league seven seasons and previously played for the Tigers, Marlins and Dodgers. He won the 2010 World Series with the Giants. He also would likely be an inexpensive sign and could be the perfect guy to play left field until Crawford can return. Ross throws left and bats right.
The left-handed hitting right fielder has spent four season in the majors playing for both the Cubs and Indians. Last season he hit .262 between both the Cubs and Indians with eight home runs and 35 RBIs. He likely would be the most expensive of the three, but could be the starting right fielder if the Red Sox were to sign him. It all depends how confident they are in Sweeney.
Who do you think the Red Sox should sign? Anyone? Leave your answers in the comment section.
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