Player Profile: Gomes provides above average power from the right side as a platoon player (and a handsomely paid one). Traditionally his splits are much better against left-handed pitching. Defensively he’s best suited as a left fielder and provides adequate defense, but won’t be winning any Gold Gloves anytime soon.
Oct 30, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox left fielder Jonny Gomes after game six of the MLB baseball World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals at Fenway Park. Red Sox won 6-1. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
2013 In Review: Many fans were skeptical at this signing at this time last year. It was probably the combination of A. Preference to see the Sox re-sign popular incumbent Cody Ross, who eventually signed with Arizona for a deal worth much more than the Sox were willing to pay him. B. Two years $10 million for a platoon player seemed like overkill. C. His status as RSN Public Enemy Number One: Non-Pinstriped Chapter back in 2008.
Gomes proved to a very good acquisition in 2013, putting up a line of .244/.344/.426/.770 with 13 home runs and 52 RBIs as a platoon partner with Daniel Nava and Mike Carp. He had a flare for the dramatic, providing his share of walkoffs. Though his career splits say otherwise, Gomes was actually better against right handed pitchers than lefties.
In the playoffs, he became somewhat of a good luck charm, as the Sox tended to win their playoff games with Gomes on the field. His spark was one of many reasons why the Sox ended the season as World Series Champs.
2014 Outlook: Gomes will likely play the same role he did in 2013. He’ll probably get most of his playing time in left field and against left-handed pitching. On days where one of the Sox regulars in the outfield (Nava, Shane Victorino, Jackie Bradley) need a day off, Gomes will provide insurance.
It is the final year of the two year $10 million contract that has proven to be more bargain than bust. But with several notable outfield prospects knocking on the door (Bryce Brentz and Alex Hassan), Gomes could very well be gone after this season. But until then, let’s enjoy the ride while it lasts.