Red Sox Trade Joe Gunkel To Orioles For Outfielder Alejandro De Aza

BOSTON — Alejandro De Aza officially is a member of the Boston Red Sox.

The Red Sox acquired De Aza and cash considerations from the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday in exchange for minor league pitcher Joe Gunkel. Boston transferred pitcher Brandon Workman to the 60-day disabled list to make room for the veteran outfielder on the 40-man roster.

De Aza was designated for assignment by the Orioles last week after hitting .214 with three homers, seven RBIs and a .636 OPS in 30 games this season. The 31-year-old has played more than 130 games each of the last three seasons, though, and could be a serviceable left-handed-hitting outfielder for the Red Sox, who recently placed Daniel Nava on the 15-day disabled list with a thumb injury.

It had been reported earlier Wednesday that Boston acquired De Aza in exchange for cash considerations. The Red Sox surrendered Gunkel to complete the deal, though, which is notable because the right-hander has had some minor league success.

Gunkel split time this season with High-A Salem and Double-A Portland. The 23-year-old, who was an 18th-round pick in 2013, went 3-2 with two saves, a 2.90 ERA and 44 strikeouts in 12 appearances, including five starts.

Workman had been on the 15-day disabled list since the beginning of the season with a right elbow strain. There’s still no timetable for his return.