The Boston Red Sox made a few roster moves hours before they host the Oakland Athletics for their second series of the year.
Enmanuel Valdez has been optioned to Triple-A Worcester and longtime minor-leaguer Jamie Westbrook has been called up to play second base in his stead. Although defense was never billed as a strong suit of his, Valdez's sloppy fielding has gotten the Red Sox into trouble numerous times.
The infielder's most recent gaffe came against the Yankees on July 5. He airmailed what should've been an inning-ending double play ball and gifted New York a run. He left the bases loaded, and Tanner Houck walked the next batter to afford Boston's rivals another free run.
Valdez's bat has been more consistent since the last time he was recalled from Triple-A on May 29. He's slashing .305/.380/.549 in his last 30 games, but Westbrook's more reliable defense outweighs Valdez's offensive contributions.
Red Sox swap Enmanuel Valdez for Jamie Westbrook, DFA Naoyuki Uwasawa to make room for newly-acquired Trey Wingenter
The #RedSox today announced the following roster moves: pic.twitter.com/hbeoihbpfi
— Red Sox (@RedSox) July 9, 2024
The Red Sox also exchanged two pitchers on the 40-man roster. They recently traded with the Tigers to acquire veteran, minor-league hurler Trey Wingenter and his deal includes an assignment clause, which forced Boston to add him to the 40-man.
To accommodate Wingenter, the Red Sox designated Naoyuki Uwasawa for assignment. The Nippon Professional Baseball veteran signed with the Rays before spring training but exercised the opt-out clause in his contract. He was traded to the Red Sox for cash considerations and pitched to a 2.25 ERA through four innings of big-league action. Uwasawa logged a 6.54 ERA through 42.2 innings, including six starts, with the WooSox.