The Boston Red Sox have finally signed shortstop Stephen Drew, who held out as long as he could for a bigger, longer contract. However, he ended up agreeing to play only one more season for the team that he won a World Series with last year.
The news was first reported by Fox Sports’ Ken Rosenthal this afternoon. CBS Sports’ Jon Heyman later tweeted that Drew will get $10 million of a pro-rated $14 million one-year deal.
It is expected that Drew will be at Fenway tonight, although he will not be in uniform. The Boston Globe’s Nick Cofardo reported that he will be on the active roster Wednesday, but he will have to play seven to 10 days in the minors.
The Red Sox began the season with Xander Bogaerts at shortstop and Will Middlebrooks at third. However, Middlebrooks has struggled as of late and The Boston Herald notes that he recently suffered a fractured right index finger. By signing Drew, they can help out the right side of the infield immediately. The Sox will have to make a tough roster move, but the players are happy to have drew back, notes Cafardo.
The deal is pending until Drew completes a physical. He was working out in Florida during the first month and a half of the season.
The Sox were just swept by the Detroit Tigers and currently have a 20-23 record.