According to reports, free agent infielder Eduardo Nunez has signed a one-year deal with the Boston Red Sox. He’ll be with the team through at least the end of the 2018 season. The deal contains an option for a second year.
Source: #RedSox signing INF Eduardo Nunez, pending physical. One-year deal with an option for a second year.
— Robert Murray (@RobertMurrayFRS) February 15, 2018
Eduardo Nunez Re-Signs with Boston Red Sox
Nunez, who turns 31 in June, split time during the 2017 season between the San Francisco Giants and the Boston Red Sox. He played a fairly significant role in Boston’s second half success, especially after Dustin Pedroia went on the disabled list.
Nunez ended the 2017 season with a .313 batting average, 12 home runs, 58 RBI, and 24 stolen bases—which was good enough to tie for 15th in all of baseball. Although his season was cut short during Boston’s playoff series against Houston, due to a knee injury.
What Nunez Brings to the Table
Nunez’s most notable traits are his hustle, his speed, and his willingness to do whatever it takes for the team to succeed. Last season alone he played second base, third base, shortstop, left field, right field, and even designated hitter.
While his skill set is best suited for the infield, Nunez is far from a defensive specialist. In fact, his stint with the New York Yankees (2010-2013) was cut short due in large part to his defensive struggles. The team saw potential in his offense, but couldn’t put up with his defensive shortcomings.
Nunez found himself in Minnesota, raising his batting average in three consecutive seasons there, culminating in an all-star appearance in the 2016 season. Unfortunately, the Twins were not contenders during his rise and found it best for both parties to deal him while his trade value was high.
The San Francisco Giants acquired him to boost their offense in hopes of a deep playoff push in 2016. His .269 batting average was a far cry from his performance in Minnesota, and the team floundered.
Although, his performance raised again in 2017 and made him valuable trade bait for a mediocre team yet again.
An offensive focused speedster who hits for contact, in an age of home runs and strikeouts, will serve to offer versatility to Boston’s offense.
Main Photo
Embed from Getty Images
