Red Sox promote Rusney Castillo from Triple-A
The Boston Red Sox are turning to their high-priced import in an effort to jump-start their struggling offense.
Rusney Castillo, the Cuban outfielder who signed with Boston for seven years and $72 million last season, was promoted from Triple-A on Friday and will be in the Red Sox's lineup for their series opener against the Los Angeles Angels. He'll bat eighth and play right field.
The Red Sox optioned outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr. to Pawtucket in a corresponding roster move.
Castillo appeared in 10 games last September for the Red Sox, collecting two homers and a double in 40 plate appearances. He failed to break camp with the club this spring, however, after an oblique injury during spring training caused him to begin the year in the minors.
The 27-year-old hit well for Pawtucket despite recently battling shoulder inflammation, posting a .293/.341/.440 slash line with two home runs and six stolen bases in 18 games.
Red Sox outfielders enter play Friday ranked 13th in the AL in OPS and second-last in on-base percentage.
Bradley, who was recalled to the Red Sox on May 10, went hitless in 13 plate appearances.