The Boston Red Sox got their guy. According to MLB Network's hot stove, Phil Rogers of the Chicago Tribune reported that the Red Sox agreed to a three-year deal with Mike Napoli.
According to Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com, both sides agreed to a three-year deal worth around $39 million.
Napoli was one of the most sought out free agents this season. He presents versatility as he can be the team's catcher and also play first base, a hole they have to fill now that James Loney signed a one-year, $2 million deal with the Tampa Bay Rays.
Napoli possess power and, just like some of the Red Sox players, he has playoff experience.
He formed part of the 2010 and 2011 Texas Rangers teams that went to the World Series. Napoli immediately impacted the lineup and brought his pop over from the Los Angeles Angels. The Toronto Blue Jays traded for him and then sent him to Texas for Frank Francisco.
Since 2008, Napoli has been one of the best hitting catchers hitting at least 20 homers in every season.
In 2011 he hit a career-high 30 homers and drove in 74 runs. Last season he only played 108 games and hit 24 homers and drove in 56 runs.
Napoli is expected to take over the first base duties.
More to Come from Boston
I doubt this is the last we'll hear from the Red Sox as one of their catchers will likely be moved.
The Red Sox now have a surge of backstops. They have their young prospect Ryan Lavarnway, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and most recently they signed David Ross to a two-year deal.
Expect a trade by the Red Sox as they could use some starting pitching.
