Sox Sign SS Stephen Drew, J.D.'s Brother

If this picture doesn't say "exciting baseball",  I don't know what does. (Image: Deadspin)

According to Jon Heyman, the Red Sox have reached a one-year deal with shortstop Stephen Drew. Drew will be paid $9.5 million, with $500K in performance incentives. This deal does not come as too much of a surprise, as it is beneficial to both sides. The Sox -- rightfully so -- were not satisfied with Jose Iglesias being the everyday shortstop, and needed a short term option until either Iglesias or Xander Boegarts are ready for the big leagues; they also add a much needed lefty bat to the lineup. Drew was looking for a hitter's friendly environment to increase his productivity before hitting the open market again in 2013.

Like his brother, Drew's career has brought some bright spots (.291 AVG and 21 home runs in 2008, 2nd in MLB in WAR for a SS), but has also brought its share of disappointment (.265 career AVG, .223 AVG in 2012). This move will allow Iglesias to start the season in the minors to get regular at bats; however, like his brother, Drew has battled injuries his whole career, so don't expect Iglesias to stay in the minors the entire season.

This certainly isn't a sexy signing for the Red Sox, but it does bring some hope that the 29 year old Drew will have the breakout year that everyone has been waiting for from him, while not hurting the Sox long term. I know that J.D. Drew was far from a fan favorite in Boston, but his production did go unappreciated during his five years here. Consider this: the Red Sox had a .590 winning percentage in games that J.D. started from 2007-2011, and only a .547 winning percentage in games he did not start.

Throw in last year and the Red Sox have won only 50.1% of their games since 2007 when J.D. Drew did not start -- maybe the Drew family is the key to Boston's success? Probably not, but Cherington seems willing to give it a try.