Dave Dombrowski: Aaron Hill Fills Red Sox’s Need For Right-Handed-Hitting Infielder

Most of the talk surrounding the Boston Red Sox and the looming non-waiver trade deadline has centered around pitching, both in the bullpen and the rotation. But the Sox filled a different need Thursday.

The Red Sox acquired infielder Aaron Hill and cash considerations from the Milwaukee Brewers for two minor league prospects. Hill has had a strong season at the plate and can play third base, which is just what Red Sox president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has been searching for.

“We’ve been looking for a right-handed-hitting infielder that can play third base for really a while,” Red Sox president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski told reporters, via the team’s website. “We’ve been a little vulnerable to left-handed pitching. We felt it would strengthen us. Of course, he’s played almost every day. He has the capabilities of playing every day. But we looked at him more to complement the players we have.”

Hill has hit .283 with eight home runs and 29 RBIs in 78 games this season, and he has split his time between second and third base.

“When I talked to him on the phone, he was very happy to be with the organization,” Dombrowski said. “He asked me the same question (about playing time). I said, ‘I think we have a good club, we’re in a position we’re trying to win this thing. We think you help make us better. You’re a good player and have been through pennant races before. When it gets to playing time, you can direct that to (Red Sox manager) John Farrell.’ I know John spoke to him on the phone, they had a good conversation.”

The Red Sox sent minor league pitcher Aaron Wilkerson and infielder Wendell Rijo to the Brewers. Wilkerson is in the midst of a solid 2016 campaign — 6-3, 2.14 ERA — but his ability to help the major league club soon was uncertain.

“Even though we like some of his abilities, I don’t think we can count on him to step forward and help us,” Dombrowski said.

Thumbnail photo via Gary A. Vasquez/USA TODAY Sports Images