The Red Sox have traded Marco Scutaro to the Rockies for 26 year-old pitching prospect Clayton Mortenson. The deal is likely a move to shed Scutaro's salary, as Mortensen is a long shot to make the Sox Opening Day roster.
Clayton Mortensen
GP: 24
GS: 13
IP: 95
W/L: 4-8
ERA: 5.12
WHIP: 1.49
So, It looks like the Red Sox are comfortable opening the season with a platoon of Mike Aviles and newly-acquired Nick Punto. Both are serviceable players, but neither are likely to put up outstanding offensive numbers. This move is definitely a statement that the Red Sox are confident that Jose Iglesias will be ready to produce in the Majors at some point this season.
The trade relieved the Sox of the 6 Million Dollars that was owed to Scutaro this season. This gives them some financial freedom to chase after Free Agents, such as Roy Oswalt, or Cody Ross. An everyday RF is a major need for the Sox, as they are yet to sign a replacement for J.D. Drew. Roy Oswalt would also provide pitching depth, and be an effective veteran pitcher to follow Lester and Beckett in the rotation.
