Red Sox Worked Out Bobby Abreu

The Boston Red Sox have had a busy off-season replacing a large portion of their major league roster. They’d like to add a left handed bat off the bench and add some depth at first base, regardless of whether or not they can finish off the deal with free agent Mike Napoli.

September 19, 2012; Washington, D.C., USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pinch hitter Bobby Abreu (12) at bat in the ninth inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park. The Nationals defeated the Dodgers 3 – 1. Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports /

According to Alex Speier of WEEI, Boston worked out former all-star Bobby Abreu in Venezuela recently, including having Abreu handle drills as a first baseman. The 17-year major league veteran has never played an inning as a first baseman, but the idea is probably worth a shot. At this point in his career, Abreu is a liability as an outfielder.

Abreu played in just eight games for the Angels last season before being released and signing on with the Dodgers. Back in the National League for the first time since 2006, Abreu performed reasonably well in a reserve role, posting a .361 on base percentage.

Though he was once a consistent 20-home-run-per-year threat, Abreu no longer features much of any power at the plate, but still possesses a great eye and ability to get on base. It’s unlikely he will command a major league contract and would be a low-risk, low-cost signing as a possible bench bat.

Abreu is a two-time former all-star with eight 100-RBI seasons under his belt and a .396 career on base percentage.

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