Gomes would presumably play left field
According to the Boston Herald the Boston Red Sox have an agreement in place with free-agent Jonny Gomes on a two-year deal. The deal is pending a physical.
Gomes hit .262 with 18 homers, 47 RBI and a career-high .377 on-base percentage in 333 plate appearances for the Oakland Athletics this year.
The Red Sox were reportedly looking to re-sign free-agent Cody Ross who led the Red Sox with 81 RBI in 2012, to go along with 22 home runs. The market for Ross grew quickly attracting the interest of teams like the New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies and the Atlanta Braves.
Ross is looking for a three-year deal at more than double his salary of $3 million in 2012 , in the six or $7 million per year range. Gomes became an alternative for Boston, because of Ross’s demands.
Gomes has always been a positive clubhouse influence. Gomes is a dead pull hitter and that should serve him well at Fenway Park. Gomes would presumably play left field or perhaps serve in a platoon role with Ryan Kalish for the Red Sox.
Red Sox GM Ben Cherington has stated his intention to find a pair of everyday outfielders to play on either side of center-fielder Jacoby Ellsbury. Gomes is not likely the everyday outfielder he was looking for, but more of a role player.
