Red Sox re-sign Mitch Moreland, likely out on Eric Hosmer
This probably was not the free agent splash Boston Red Sox fans were hoping for.
The Red Sox on Monday signed Mitch Moreland to a two-year deal worth a reported $13 million.
Mitch Moreland will get $13M over 2 years from #Redsox. Can make an additional $1M in incentives.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) December 18, 2017
Moreland, 32, played last season with the Red Sox and batted .246 with 34 doubles and 22 home runs. Those numbers fell in line with his career slash line averages of .252/.326/.413.
Although he has played in the outfield on occasions during his career, Moreland is almost exclusively a first baseman. Re-signing him almost certainly means the Red Sox are out on Eric Hosmer, who was said to be one of their targets.
Boston is said to be looking for an offensive upgrade. The biggest bat available on the market that seems to fit their needs would be J.D. Martinez, who is seeking a $200 million contract.