BO-SOX SWAP FOR MORE INFIELD DEPTH
The Boston Red Sox acquired infielder Tony Graffanino from the Kansas City Royals for minor-league outfielder Chip Ambres and minor-league pitcher Juan Cedeno.
What does it give the Boston Red Sox
With struggling second baseman Mark Bellhorn recently landing on the disabled list and the soft-hitting Alex Cora (also acquired this month) their only other option, Graffanino can take over there. The versatile veteran is a reliable enough defender and has had a solid season with the bat, with occasional pop. He's also the kind of hard-nosed player who will fit perfectly in the Bo-Sox's clubhouse.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
At 25, Ambres is finally starting to realize some of the potential that saw him drafted in the first round by the Marlins in 1998. He gives the Royals a little extra minor-league depth and with their dearth of quality outfielders he could be up in a hurry. In sending lefty Juan Cedeno to K.C., the Sox dealt from depth, with a load of good lefties in their system. He has a great fastball but that's about it. However, if he develops another pitch or two, he has plenty of potential to be in the majors two or three years. The Royals may have done well on this one.
Fantasy impact
