Boston Red Sox bring back depth option in Travis Shaw

The Boston Red Sox have been looking for a way to get more production out of the first base spot. Kyle Schwarber had received playing time at first during his rehab assignment as the Red Sox were not content with Bobby Dalbec. Although Dalbec has been playing better of late, Boston was still on the lookout for potential options.

One has come to the organization in the form of an old friend. Travis Shaw was claimed off of waivers from the Brewers, and should be with the major league squad for Tuesday.

Boston Red Sox return to familiar face for depth

Shaw had been a fairly well regarded corner infield prospect prior to being sent to the Brewers as part of the package for Tyler Thornburg. That trade turned out to be a disaster for Boston as Thornburg missed the 2017 campaign after undergoing thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and was never able to return to the form he displayed in 2016.

Meanwhile, Shaw blossomed in Milwaukee. He became everything the Red Sox had hoped for over his first two seasons with the Brewers, posting a .258/.347/.497 batting line in his 1193 plate appearances. He hit 64 homers and 57 doubles while stealing 15 bases, becoming a key part of the Brewers lineup.

However, he was unable to sustain that production. Shaw was unable to post even league average numbers over the past three seasons, going from Milwaukee to Toronto and back to Milwaukee. Now, he is back where his major league journey began.

It is not clear what the Red Sox plans are for Shaw. Chances are, he will serve as a depth piece, getting some time at first and third as need be. He is also capable of playing second, potentially giving the Red Sox a utility infielder that they could use.

The Boston Red Sox have brought Travis Shaw back into the fold. They are hoping that he can be part of the answer at first for the rest of 2021.