NomarsShackNews

11-26-01
Good news on Nomar

All reports indicate Nomar Garciaparra's surgically repaired right wrist will fully heal by spring training. But the Sox are taking steps just in case their star shortstop suffers another postoperative setback.

Rather than get stuck for a second straight year without a highly qualified backup, the Sox may making a strong push for Rey Sanchez, one of the best defensive shortstops in recent years.

The Sox are interested in signing Sanchez not just as insurance for Garciaparra but to shore up their shaky defense at second base, according to a source. Sanchez, 34, who played second and short for the Cubs early in his career, apparently would be willing to play second for the Sox.

Sanchez hit .281 for the Royals and Braves this year with no home runs and 37 RBI. Atlanta picked him up at the trade deadline after it lost shortstop Rafael Furcal to a season-ending injury.

A free swinger, Sanchez posted an on-base percentage of only .300, as he drew just 15 walks in 544 at-bats. In 11 seasons of major-league service with the Cubs, Yankees, Giants, Royals, and Braves, he has batted .274 with 12 homers and 300 RBI. He has hit .229 (8-for-35) in 11 games at Fenway Park.

But the Sox need a strong glove much more than another big bat. And Sanchez could provide one. He committed only six errors in 148 games at shortstop last season and only four errors in 143 games at short in 2000.