Red Sox infielder Caleb Durbin joins team with Pedroia link

The Red Sox acquired infielder Caleb Durbin, a 5-foot-7 player the club sees as a defensive presence who could play second or third as Boston evaluates its infield during spring camp.

The Boston Red Sox acquired infielder Caleb Durbin in a trade this week as the club continues to sort its offseason plans. Durbin, listed at 5-foot-7, has drawn comparisons to former Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia because of his size and style. The team says it values his defense and pull-side swing, which could play well at Fenway Park. Boston will evaluate Durbin’s role during spring camp while working to bring stability to the middle infield. What is known: - The Red Sox acquired Caleb Durbin; he spent last season with the Milwaukee Brewers after earlier time in the Yankees system. - Durbin is listed at 5-foot-7 and has been compared to Dustin Pedroia in Boston media and among team observers. - Last season he hit .256 with a .721 OPS, 11 home runs, 25 doubles, 18 stolen bases, a 9.9% strikeout rate, and finished third in National League Rookie of the Year voting. - He has played mainly at second base in the minors and worked to improve at third base during his rookie year, finishing with 2 Outs Above Average at third. - Manager Alex Cora said Durbin’s defensive work and base running were focal points in conversations and mentioned Durbin could hit in the six-hole behind left-handed hitters such as Wilyer Abreu. - Durbin had offseason arthroscopic elbow surgery and will be available to play in camp at multiple infield positions. Summary: The Red Sox see Durbin as a defensive-minded, versatile infielder who can help address years of turnover at second base. The club has not announced a primary position for him; he will split time at second and third in spring camp as Boston evaluates the best fit and final roster roles.