Red Sox vs the AL East: third basemen
By Conor Duffy
Nov 25, 2014; Boston, Ma, USA; Boston Red Sox third baseman Pablo Sandoval talks with the media during his introductory press conference at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Pablo Sandoval, Red Sox
Once again, this ranking has more to do with the strength of third basemen in the division than it does with Sandoval’s skill. After all, the Red Sox are counting on a middle-of-the-order bat after signing Sandoval to a 5 year/$95M contract this offseason. At the very least, he’ll provide the team with both a consistent and reliable bat (he slashed .279/.324/.415 with the Giants last season) and glove. Plus, like Headley, Sandoval’s offense could very well improve given that he is moving from a pitchers’ park to a significantly more hitter-friendly park for the first time in his career. In fact, Fenway Park is an ideal stadium for Sandoval and, with their sizable financial commitment, the Red Sox will be banking on Sandoval improving and their faith ought to be well-placed.