In a move to bolster their lineup before Opening Day, the Boston Red Sox have signed veteran first baseman C.J. Cron to a minor league contract, according to sources. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed. Cron, a 34-year-old who was an All-Star in 2022 with the Rockies, brings experience and a right-handed hitting option to the team.

With Justin Turner recently signing with the Toronto Blue Jays, Bobby Dalbec was expected to be the backup option at first base behind Triston Casas. However, Cron's arrival now presents a challenge to Dalbec for that spot. While Dalbec offers positional versatility, being able to play third base and the corner outfield spots, Cron's expertise lies solely at first base.

Cron's power-hitting ability throughout his 10 seasons in the major leagues gives the Red Sox a higher offensive floor than Dalbec. However, Dalbec's versatility and ability to play multiple positions could still work in his favor during the competition for a roster spot.

If Cron does make the team, he could also take some designated hitter at-bats from Masataka Yoshida. As a free agent, Cron will have an opt-out clause leading up to Opening Day on March 28. Currently not on the 40-man roster, he will have to prove himself during spring training to secure a spot.

Although dealing with lingering back issues in 2023, Cron managed to play 71 games between the Rockies and Angels. He finished the season with a. 248 batting average, 12 homers, 37 RBIs, and a. 729 OPS. This marked a slight disappointment from his All-Star performance in 2022 when he hit. 257 with 29 homers, 102 RBIs, and a. 783 OPS.

Throughout his career, Cron has been a reliable hitter, maintaining a. 260 batting average and hitting 187 home runs in his 10-year tenure with the Angels, Rays, Twins, Tigers, and Rockies.

Triston Casas, the Red Sox's primary first baseman, showed promise in his rookie season but had limited appearances against left-handed pitchers. This resulted in Red Sox manager Alex Cora starting Justin Turner, the regular designated hitter, at first base against southpaws. Casas held his own against lefties, posting an. 817 OPS compared to his. 865 OPS against righties.

Cron, who has a career. 814 OPS against left-handed pitchers, could serve as a valuable right-handed complement to Casas. However, it's worth noting that Cron has struggled against lefties over the past two seasons.

For now, the battle for the first base position and a roster spot will intensify between Cron and Dalbec. Dalbec, who had limited playing time last season, will aim to showcase his skills as a right-handed bench bat during spring training. However, with a remaining minor league option, Dalbec may ultimately head back to Triple-A.

The arrival of C.J. Cron adds competition and depth to the Red Sox roster, setting the stage for an intriguing battle for playing time as the team approaches Opening Day.