BOSOX GET SLUGGER GONZALEZ
The Boston Red Sox acquired first baseman Adrian Gonzalez from the San Diego Padres for pitcher Casey Kelly, first baseman Anthony Rizzo, outfielder Reymond Fuentes and a player to be named later ( Eric Patterson - December 16, 2010).
What does it give the Boston Red Sox
Gonzalez immediately gives the Red Sox a huge boost, both offensively and defensively. Not only has the durable power hitter averaged 34 homers and 105 RBI the past four seasons playing in a pitcher's park and a thin batting order, he's a two-time Gold Glover. His numbers could go from great to jaw-dropping playing at Fenway in a loaded lineup, and his lefty bat slots in well in the middle of the Boston's already-potent batting order. His addition should move Kevin Youkilis back to third, with Adrian Beltre now clearly not in the team's plans going forward. Expect the Red Sox to eventually sign Gonzalez to a big extension.
What does it give the San Diego Padres
The small-market Pads can't be pleased about giving up their cornerstone player, but they at least get some very promising youngsters here in return. Kelly is the obvious catch (although he struggled somewhat in Double-A last season), while Rizzo is a promising and accomplished power-hitting prospect (who mashed Double-A pitching in 2010). Fuentes is a speedy base-stealer with good tools. All three aren't ready for the majors yet, but in a few seasons they may be key members of a talented young Padres outfit. Gonzalez's departure should see huge slugger Kyle Blanks get a chance to move from the outfield to first base (once he's recovered from Tommy John surgery).
Fantasy impact
