Big Stick (Again) To Boston

The Red Sox have acquired Victor Martinez for Justin Masterson, Nick Hagadone and Justin Price.

Indians Side: Indians have sold for this season. 3 young pitchers, all with talent.

Masterson should now move to the rotation and go through the typical growing pains these young guys usually face. He will need to refine his change and learn how to add and subtract velocity from his fastball to be successful.

Hagadone, 23, was regarded as the Sox # 3 prospect prior to the season despite having Tommy John Surgery last season. He returned to Low-A Greenville and is 0-2, 2.52 in 10 starts, walking 14 and striking out 32 in 25 innings. They were carefully monitoring him and I expect the Indians to do the same. Won't know what they have with him until the leash comes off next season.

Price, 22, was regarded as the Sox # 20 prospect prior to the season on the strength of his 6-4, 220 pound frame and 90-95 mile per hour sinking fastball. Price has pitched at 2 levels this season (and got hit around at High-A) and has gone 4-8, 4.67 in 19 starts, walking 31 and striking out 97 in 96 and 1/3 innings. He should make it at least as a reliever.

Red Sox Side: Another bat, but where you going to play him? Unless they have made a move to get rid of LaRoche or Lowell, this is a very expensive insurance policy. Can't exactly sit the captain (though they should, and maybe they will). Martinez is a vastly underrated hitter and has the capability to do what Jason Bay did last season.

Overall: Great move by the Red Sox. I am not sold on Masterson's ability as a starter and both pitching prospects have some serious questions. They can figure out where to play him later.