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BOSTON (AP) -- The World Series champion Boston Red Sox have signed free-agent catcher A.J. Pierzynski to a one-year contract.
The lefty-hitting Pierzynski replaces Jarrod Saltalamacchia in the Boston lineup. Righty David Ross served as the backup last season but took over the job in the World Series after Saltalamacchia's throwing error helped lead to the obstruction call that gave St. Louis a victory in Game 3.
Pierzynski and Ross will both be 37 next season.
The Red Sox are hoping they can do the job until prospects Christian Vazquez and Blake Swihart are ready.
Pierzynski hit .272 with 17 homers and 70 RBIs last season with Texas. In 13-plus seasons with the Twins, Giants, White Sox and Rangers, Pierzynski is a .283 batter with 172 homers and 800 RBIs.
Cox Media Group
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