Red Sox Sign David Ross

The Boston Red Sox have come to terms with backstop David Ross today, announcing a two-year pact that will reportedly pay the veteran a total of $6.2 million. For Ross, who has never made more than $2.5 million in a season according to Baseball Reference, this is a significant bump in salary and a huge win for a player who will be 36 before next season begins.

Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-US PRESSWIRE

That isn’t to say Boston doesn’t have a good chance at getting their money’s worth out of the longtime backup. Ross, already a former Dodger, Pirate, Padre, Red, and now Brave, will be on his second stint with the Red Sox; he was with the organization last in 2008, receiving only 9 plate appearances. Although not starting material, Ross is more than capable as an offensive-minded backup at the game’s most physically demanding position. For his career, he is a .238/.324/.444 hitter, and one with plenty of pop in his bat.

Ross also comes with solid UZR numbers per FanGraphs, indicating a strong defensive presence. The journeyman has never compiled more than 348 plate appearance in a season, but as long as Boston doesn’t overexpose him, he’s a safe bet to provide his usual assortment of patience and power at the plate along with reliable defense behind it over the next few years.

Can’t get enough of Spencer? Check out his work at StanGraphs and follow him on Twitter at @shendricks221.