The Boston Red Sox acquired infielder Curtis Mead from the Washington Nationals early Sunday morning in exchange for left-handed pitcher Connelly Early.
The deal, announced late Saturday night, sends the 25-year-old Mead to Boston while the Nationals receive the 24-year-old Early, who is currently on the injured list.
Mead is batting .254 with 17 home runs and 48 RBIs this season. He is expected to travel to Boston later Sunday and make his Red Sox debut during a four-game series against the Athletics in West Sacramento.
Red Sox manager Chad Tracy noted a clear need to improve the offense, saying Curtis fits that profile. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow highlighted Mead's improved setup and bat-to-ball skills.
Payton Tolle, a teammate of Early, initially doubted the news until seeing confirmation from Jeff Passan. Early said goodbyes in the clubhouse Sunday morning.
