The former Red Sox World Series champion signs with the Rangers, joining Nathan Eovaldi
A pair of 2018 World Series champions will be on the same roster after the departures of the Boston Red Sox.
One of the most notable moves by the Texas Rangers this offseason, following the addition of superstar right-hander Jacob deGrom, was the acquisition of right-hander Nathan Eovaldi, after the The Red Sox reportedly withdrew their multi-year offer.
Now, Texas as added one of his former drummers.
“Free agent catcher Sandy León has signed a minor league deal with the Rangers,” the Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal tweeted Thursday. “The deal includes (an) invitation to major league spring training.”
León split time last season with the Cleveland Guardians and Minnesota Twins, never finding an offensive rhythm. The 33-year-old hit .169 with three doubles, four RBIs and a .509 OPS in 33 games.
The last time Leon eclipsed a .200 batting average was in 2017 with the Red Sox, and his only above-average offensive performance came the year before that, also in Boston.
Leon is still regarded as a strong defender who can combine his strong arm, framing ability and strong blocking with a quality shot.
It wouldn’t have been surprising if the Red Sox decided to bring Leon back in a similar deal given the lack of experience behind the plate currently on the roster, but Boston should have plenty of other options to turn to if they decide to upgrade the catcher . position
In fact, León might have stolen former Red Sox-turned-Rangers free agent Kevin Plawecki’s spot in the organization.
A reunion would be seems unlikely given the way Boston cut ties with Plawecki a season ago, but his addition could help an inexperienced group.
While the Red Sox seem committed to cutting every member of the 2018 roster, it will be fun to see Leon take over for Eovaldi in spring training.
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