Sizemore’s revenge: scrap heap acquisitions that didn’t pan out for Red Sox

2009 O-Pee-Chee

Rocco Baldelli (2009)

The signing of the “Woonsocket Rocket” has frequently been compared to the Sizemore deal. Both men were center fielders by trade and both deals were low-risk. But Rocco was on his way out of baseball due to a rare mitochondrial disorder that not only made him susceptible to sprains and strains, but also sapped his energy when he was able to play.

Baldelli made a valiant effort in 2009, with 7 homers and 23 RBI in 150 AB. Sox fans appreciate Rocco to this day. But his tenure can’t be classified as a success. A sad coda to the career of a former #1 pick.