The Boston Red Sox are closing in on signing veteran catcher Jonathan Lucroy, reports Masslive’s Chris Cotillo. It’s expected to be a minor league deal with an invitation to camp this spring.
The 33-year-old is a two-time All-Star, although he hasn’t performed at that level since 2016. Lucroy’s power has fallen off a cliff while his batting average has gradually dwindled. He hit a career-low .232 with a .660 OPS in 293 at-bats split between the Los Angeles Angels and Chicago Cubs last year.
His defense has also slipped behind the plate. Lucroy was once an excellent defensive catcher known for his pitch framing ability.