BOSTON -- Though the Red Sox had been exploring new options at first base since the Hot Stove season started, the team announced on Monday it will bring back Mitch Moreland on a two-year contract worth $13 million, according to a source.President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has been saying for weeks the Red Sox were trying to acquire a bat to put in the middle of their lineup, but Moreland's name hadn't come up much.This move indicates that the Red Sox will not be signing free agent first baseman Eric Hosmer. 
What remains to be seen is whether this impacts the club's pursuit of free-agent outfielder J.D. Martinez, thought to be Boston's top target this winter.Under Boston's current roster alignment, Martinez wouldn't have a regular spot in the outfield, which has Andrew Benintendi, Jackie Bradley Jr. and Mookie Betts. Hanley Ramirez is still under contract as the DH.Moreland signed a one-year contract with the Red Sox last December. He hit .246 with 22 homers and 79 RBIs in 2017.
What remains to be seen is whether this impacts the club's pursuit of free-agent outfielder J.D. Martinez, thought to be Boston's top target this winter.Under Boston's current roster alignment, Martinez wouldn't have a regular spot in the outfield, which has Andrew Benintendi, Jackie Bradley Jr. and Mookie Betts. Hanley Ramirez is still under contract as the DH.Moreland signed a one-year contract with the Red Sox last December. He hit .246 with 22 homers and 79 RBIs in 2017.
Ian Browne/ MLB.com
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