Red Sox LF platoon options to pair with Chris Young

Jun 18, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox left fielder Chris Young (30) center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. (25) and right fielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrate after defeating the Seattle Mariners at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 18, 2016; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox left fielder Chris Young (30) center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. (25) and right fielder Mookie Betts (50) celebrate after defeating the Seattle Mariners at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
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May 31, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Seth Smith (7) hits a three-run home run against the San Diego Padres during the third inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
May 31, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners left fielder Seth Smith (7) hits a three-run home run against the San Diego Padres during the third inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Seth Smith

The Red Sox don’t need to break the bank on a platoon piece, so a player like Seth Smith may appeal to the Red Sox organization. Traded just a year and a half ago, Smith is strictly an option against RHP. He’s switched between the corner outfield positions as well as DH this year, hitting .273 against righties with 6 home runs and more walks than strikeouts.

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Where Smith excels at hitting RHP, he lacks in versatility. His defensive range is spotty at best and he struggles mightily against LHP (.188 AVG).

The Seattle Mariners have hit a rough patch in the season, and their playoff hopes may be running away with the Texas Rangers owning the best record in the AL West. If the trend continues, Seattle may be looking to gain prospects for a postseason run in the years to come. It’s my belief that the veteran outfielder would enjoy a more competitive division where the Red Sox will continue to battle the Blue Jays and Orioles down the stretch.

33-year old Seth Smith’s veteran leadership may be a boost to the club, and would only cost a few prospects plus his $6.75 million contract for this year, with an club option for next season. Smith can be seen as an affordable option from a team that is quickly fading in the AL West.

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