Projo Sox Blog

ARLINGTON, Texas _ The Red Sox acquired shortstop Alex Gonzalez and cash considerations from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for infielder Kris Negron.

Gonzalez will join the club here on Saturday. The 32-year-old was hitting .210 with three homers and 26 RBI in 68 games for the Reds.

This will be his second stint with Boston. He hit .255 with nine home runs and 50 RBI in 111 games for the Sox in 2006.

With Jed Lowrie (wrist) back on the disabled list, and Nick Green struggling offensively, the Red Sox wanted to try to solidify the position defensively and bringing in the veteran Gonzalez could do the job.

Manager Terry Francona recalls the type of defensive prowess "Gonzy" showcased during the 2006 season. He recorded a .985 fielding percentage with only 7 errors, 163 putouts and 305 assists.

"He was one of the best shortstops I had ever seen and having one of the best seasons I've ever seen," said Francona. "He made plays that would make you shake your head. That's really welcome."

Negron, 23, posted a .264 average with three homers and 34 RBI in 111 games for Single-A Salem this season. He was Boston's 11th overall pick (seventh round) in the 2006 draft.

--JOE McDONALD

 Tags  Alex Gonzalez

---