Minor Moves and Big League Hopefuls

In a flurry of moves late last week, the Sox signed seven players to minor league deals. For some, the moves will result in mid-season call-ups or a cup of coffee in September. For others, the moves are very curious from a career-advancement standpoint as many are blocked by what is already substantial organizational depth.

Even so, injuries and circumstance will assuredly open the door for a few of these singees and spring training invites. For others, it will be a long season at Pawtucket.

RP Brian Shouse: Another move that doesn’t make much sense for the player at hand, Shouse would have a much better shot at breaking camp in the bigs with some other team. Still, the signing is a great move for the Red Sox, as Shouse can be an excellent situational lefty when the time calls for it. In 2009, lefties batted a combined .224/.243/.373 against Shouse, with 14 Ks and just 1 BB in 67 at-bats.

Should Sox import Billy Wagner?

As I mention here, the Mets have activated Billy Wagner from the disabled list. Should the Red Sox bring in Wagner? Read on to find out more…

Fernando Cabrera tears it up with PawSox, awaits call

Will the real Fernando Cabrera please stand up?

Is it the Cabrera, who from 2006-08, posted a minor league ERA of 1.12?

Or is it the Cabrera who, during the same period, had a major league ERA of 5.92?

“I don’t look at stats and I don’t know what his stats were (last season) with the Orioles,” said Pawtucket Red Sox pitching coach Rich Sauveur of the team’s closer. “I can only go on what I’ve seen this year. To me, this kid can pitch in the big leagues right now.