Pablo Sandoval: Boston Red Sox ‘Surprised’ To Land Giant Slugger
Pablo Sandoval, also known as the “Kung Fu Panda,” was introduced to Red Sox nation Tuesday. The robust former San Francisco slugger comes to town bearing three world championships with his former club. For that reason alone, many — including Red Sox GM Ben Cherington — were surprised Boston managed to pry the third basemen away from the Bay Area.
According to the USA Today, “the Red Sox seemed more than a little surprised he’s there. General manager Ben Cherington realized the deep connection Sandoval had in San Francisco, noting it was far from a case of a free agent fleeing a toxic environment, and that he ‘respected’ that connection when engaging Sandoval.”
That connection certainly made the free agent signing of Sandoval a bit of a coup for Boston. And while ESPN’s Keith Law considers the pick up a strange move for the Red Sox, he does note that it was the right one for both sides:
“Too much coverage of Sandoval focuses on his weight, when his skill set, while uncommon today, makes him a valuable player most of the time. He has great bat speed and plate coverage, rarely striking out and using the whole field well, just not hitting for the power we expect from most third basemen. He’s an average to slightly above-average third baseman, with fringy range but good hands and a plus arm.”
So what made Pablo choose Boston over his former home in San Fransisco? For Sandoval, it all came down to the very fact that he did win so much as a Giant. “The Giants gave me an opportunity to be in the big leagues, opened the door, taught me how to respect the game. The Giants fans were the best,” he said wearing his new No. 48 Red Sox jersey. “At the same time, I want a new challenge. I chose to be here in Boston because I need a new challenge, need to lead a new team to a legacy. I wanted to make sure I made the right decision. I’m happy to be here.”
The Sandoval signing, along with Hanley Ramirez, capped a big week for Boston. And, as reported by Inquistr, the team may not be finished yet. Red Sox GM Ben Cherington is reportedly interested in trading for Phillies ace Cole Hamels, a move that could strengthen their rotation following the departure of Jon Lester midway through the season.
