The Red Sox announced a series of transactions in which the team turned over a few 40-man spots. Leaving the big league roster were infielder Josh Rutledge, who was designated for assignment, and righty Anthony Varvaro, who was outrighted (and elected free agency).
Boston needed those slots as part of its efforts to protect players from the Rule 5 draft. Going onto the 40-man are infielder Marco Hernandez, righty Pat Light, and lefty Williams Jerez.
Rutledge, 26, has shown some pop at times from the middle infield but hasn’t been a consistent offensive threat and has rated poorly with the glove. He spent most of last season at Triple-A with the Angels organization, but went to Boston at the trade deadline in the Shane Victorino deal.
The 31-year-old Varvaro, meanwhile, turned in nice seasons for the Braves in 2013 and 2014. He went to the Sox via trade last winter. But he started off slowly in 2015 and ultimately required season-ending surgery for a torn flexor tendon (after being claimed and returned by the Cubs).
DFA’ing Rutledge was a mistake, unless they can somehow convince him to sign a MiLB deal which I doubt, utility players that can hit fairly well are pretty tough to find. Much better options already on the 40 man roster either out of options and of little use, or only 1 option.. Bryce brentz, Edwin Escobar were 2 easy choices. Sean Coyle has shown he can’t stay healthy. Noe Ramirez and his collection of mediocre junk, along with 89-90mph FB won’t cut it. Maybe even Roman Mendez, the kid they originally signed years ago, traded away and signed as a FA again last fall.
Rutledge had use.. Most of those above do not.
Rutledge is garbage, and no he cant hit.