One of the Red Sox’s most recent signings can be attributed in part to a formidable opponent.
Dominic Smith joined Boston less than an hour before his Red Sox debut against the San Francisco Giants at Fenway Park. Smith became available to Boston on Wednesday, after opting out of his minor-league contract with Tampa Bay.
However, the relocation process began many days before Smith signed a contract with the Red Sox. On Sunday, the Rays granted Smith permission to explore a new opportunity, allowing him to travel into Boston on Tuesday and have a physical with the club Wednesday morning.
“They (the Rays) told me from the beginning that if there’s an opportunity somewhere else, they won’t hold me back,” Smith told reporters, according to MassLive. “We spoke on Sunday. They suggested reaching out to teams. I have nothing but admiration for them for it. And that’s the only reason I’m here today; they could have dragged it out a little longer. But we’re here today and delighted to be a part of the Red Sox. That’s wonderful to say.”
Smith’s “whirlwind” first day in Boston ended with him hitting seventh and starting at first base versus San Francisco. The Red Sox won 6-2 thanks to the eighth-year pro’s 1-for-4 performance, including an RBI single in the fifth inning.
Smith and his new club will try for their fifth consecutive victory Thursday afternoon when they finish their three-game series with the Giants.
