Bye Bye Blum

In a completely unsurprising move, the Sox have let G-off Blum go, he signed a contract with the San Diego Padres. This is good news, as Blum, a journeyman utility infileder, was set to make upwards of $750,000 this year (he made $650,000 in 2005) for a role that is, dubious, at best.

While Blum will always be remembered for his dramatic home run that sent the Sox to a crucial victory in Game 3 of the World Series - the longest game in post season histroy -- his regular season stats are, uh, less than impressive:

31 games, 95 AB, .232/.274./.200, 1 homer , 3 RBIs, 15 K, 4 BB. 0 SB, 3 errors (all at 3B) in just 12 games, for a dismal .917 FPCT (at 3B, at least).

Blum came over in a trade that sent LHP Ryan Meaux to San Diego. Even if Meaux goes on to glory, the trade was worth it for the Sox, if only for the victory in game 3. I was certain that, along with Carl Everett, Blum would be one guy that definately would not be back with the Sox in 2006 - he's just too expensive. There are plenty of guys out there who can hit .200 for less than half of Blum salary.

Best of luck to G-off. and thanks!