BOSTON - The Red Sox added some utility help Thursday, claiming Chase d’Arnaud off waivers from the Braves. With Dustin Pedroia banged up and Brock Holt and Pablo Sandoval both on the disabled list, the Sox’ infield depth was worn down.
How exactly the Sox make room for d’Arnaud on the 25-man roster wasn’t immediately clear. He’s not going to be on the active roster until Friday.
Manager John Farrell on Tuesday, the day d’Arnaud was designated for assignment, said the Sox were actually comfortable with their infield depth, despite all the injuries. Josh Rutledge, Marco Hernandez and Steve Selsky are center stage these days.
“No, I think we’re good because with Rutledge’s ability to play all four, Marco’s ability to play three, we feel like we’re in pretty good shape,” Farrell said. “In addition to Selsky’s ability more comfortably at first base and the outfield as well, we feel like our depth has us in a good position to be covered.”
The 30-year-old d’Arnaud was on the Opening Day roster for the Braves and went 3-for-8 with a couple walks. He can play any position, infield or outfield, and is a .231 lifetime hitter in 170 games between three teams.
The Pirates drafted d’Arnaud, who bats right-handed, in the fourth round in 2008. He’s done well as a pinch hitter, going 11-for-37 (.297) with a .381 on-base percentage in his career.
He's also well known for his music.
Boston Red Sox
Right-handed reliever Carson Smith was moved to the 60-day disabled list to make room on the 40-man roster. He is rehabbing from Tommy John surgery and not expected back until June any way. (The point Smith went on the DL, which was the start of the season, doesn't change.)