Mike Cameron’s deal with the Red Sox should be announced sometime today, along with the Red Sox signing of John Lackey. While Lackey’s contract was a bit much, it’s still not an awful deal for Boston. However, I have heard some people say that Cameron was a bad signing, due to the team losing offense in the process. While the chicks dig the long ball, it doesn’t mean it’s the best thing a team can do for itself.
Cameron will likely play left field in Boston, barring a strange Jacoby Ellsbury trade. While Cameron’s great defense may not be obvious playing in front of the Green Monster, it will have an affect on the team. Having Cameron in left allows Ellsbury’s range to shorten, making the defense better as a whole.
And don’t forget, Cameron can still hit. 25+ homers with a solid walk rate is likely in Fenway, so the Sox may be losing an impact bat offensively, but the team is still benefiting from this move (and saving some money to spend on Lackey).
A team with the kind of money the Red Sox have typically puts together a helluva offensive ballclub, but this team is looking to be based on pitching and defense. Don’t get me wrong, their offense is still good, but the defense and rotation are looking to be the cornerstone for success this year. The fans may not like what they see, but I do. The American League is going to be insane this upcoming year, with as many as 5 teams on my radar to move onto the World Series.
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