The Red Sox have traded minor left handed pitcher Fabian Williamson for Eric Patterson. Patterson fits the same versatile utility role that Bill Hall does, playing both outfield and infield. Unfortunately, like Bill Hall, he doesn't do either particularly well.

With Dustin Pedroia out, depth is obviously needed. But this seems like another misguided attempt to avoid specialization. Since Patterson doesn't have any real bat, either, it would make a lot more sense to just get an actual dedicated infielder and an actual dedicated outfielder.

Williamson, 21, had a 3.72 ERA in High-A Salem, but was struggling with control, managing only a 40:34 K:BB ratio.