BOSTON -- No matter how the Boston Red Sox decided to replace David Ortiz, even if they splurged for free agent Edwin Encarnacion or struck a short-term deal with Carlos Beltran, it almost certainly was going to require more.
So, why not take a flier on Mitch Moreland?
Two days after reaching an agreement with the Red Sox, Moreland passed a physical in Boston, the final touch on a one-year, $5.5 million contract. The plan, according to manager John Farrell, is for Moreland to play first base and Hanley Ramirez to be the designated hitter against right-handed pitchers.