Red Sox Promote Versatile Newcomer After Strong Start, Demote Former Fan Favorite

The Boston Red Sox had a largely successful road trip to kick off their season but did so with some awkward roster contruction.

One of their wins required manager Alex Cora to empty the bench in an extra-innings affair with the Oakland Athletics. Due to their lack of versatility, Cora was forced to put his designated hitter -- Triston Casas -- on the field, revoking the DH spot and placing a pitcher in the lineup.

Boston locked up a 5-4 win but did so in an unorthodox way. That game, as well as some early-season production, has led to an early roster move.

The Red Sox have called up utility man Romy Gonzalez to the big-league roster the team announced. To make room for the versatile newcomer, first baseman Bobby Dalbec has been optioned to Triple-A Worcester.

Gonzalez hit .321 (9-for-28) with six extra-base hits including three home runs, 10 RBIs and a 1.196 OPS in seven games for the WooSox to open the season.

The 27-year-old impressed with his glove and flashed with his bat in spring training. He'll now be in the mix for a role up the middle and will also be able to provide spot appearances all over the diamond.

Gonzalez has logged time at shortstop, second base and first base already this season and has played every position professionally except pitcher and catcher. He'll aid Cora's day-to-day decision-making by giving his skipper flexibility.

As for Dalbec, his time in the Red Sox organization should have expired years ago. The 28-year-old is 0-for-9 with six strikeouts to open the season and has a staggering 54.8% strikeout rate over the last two seasons, which includes 58 at-bats.

We'll continue to talk about the former fan-favorite slugger as potential trade bait this season.

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