Needing another righthanded bat, the Red Sox added a well traveled veteran who grew up a Boston baseball fan despite being a Florida native.
That only scratches the surface of Steve Pearce’s story. Acquired in a trade from the Blue Jays (along with cash considerations) in exchange for minor leaguer Santiago Espinal, Pearce’s geographic versatility – having played for seven teams across two countries – extends to his on-field capability.
He’s a first baseman who can also play outfield, as well as designated hitter. The 35-year-old has amassed a majority of his Major League plate appearances after crossing the threshold of 30, a renaissance which has seen him tap into the talents he once utilized as a collegiate star.