The Boston Red Sox have been on the hunt for a backup infielder who could give Bobby Dalbec or Pablo Reyes a run for their money for a roster spot.
This morning, they found their guy.
The Red Sox have signed first baseman C.J. Cron to a minor-league deal, per Chris Cotillo of MassLive.
In his latest roster projection, Cotillo reported that Boston was seeking infield depth and that Cron was one of its potential targets. He also listed Donovan Solano, Darin Ruf and even Adam Duvall, who has some first-base experience, as top options for the job.
Red Sox sign CJ Cron to a minor-league pact to secure infield depth
Red Sox in agreement with CJ Cron, per source.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) March 1, 2024
Cron spent the beginning of his career with the Angels and he found his way back to Anaheim this season, although he only played 15 games in red. He played just 71 games in 2023 after missing the beginning of the campaign due to a back injury.
Over his career, Cron has slashed .260/.320/.471 with a .791 OPS. His slugging percentage leaves something to be desired, but he's a right-handed bat the Red Sox can slot in early in the batting order to break up the left-handed dominance in the lineup.
Before he played for Anaheim a second time, Cron spent two and a half seasons in Colorado. His stint there began with a minor-league deal in 2021 and an invite to big-league spring training. He eventually made the 40-man roster and put up career-high offensive numbers, averaging .281/.375/.530. With any luck, Cron will replicate his 2021 season and make a statement after signing a minor-league pact.
He followed up his 2021 performance with an All-Star nod the next season — he hit 29 home runs in 2022. Cron could bring the Sox the right-handed pop they've been seeking all offseason, but his home run numbers did spike during his time in Colorado. Playing half his games a mile-high could've helped Cron's bat.
As Boston signs the infield depth it needs, fans grow increasingly restless for a blockbuster free agent signing. With Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery still available and the Red Sox in known discussions with their agent, fans are desperate for a big move from the team.