Red Sox Re-Sign Fan Favorite Catcher To Pair With Connor Wong

The Boston Red Sox upgraded a key position prior to Thursday's game, bringing back an old friend in the process.

The Red Sox signed rising fan-favorite catcher Jorge Alfaro to a big-league deal according to multiple reports from inside the clubhouse, including MassLive's Chris Cotillo. As a corresponding move, the Red Sox have designated fellow catcher Caleb Hamilton for assignment.

Alfaro quickly garnered attention among Red Sox Nation when he originally signed with the club this offseason due to his routinely viral home runs in winter ball, flare for the dramatic with the San Diego Padres last season and resemblance to Jason Momoa. 

He proceeded to impress with the bat in his hand, and while he did not make the Red Sox's roster, he impressed the organization for months in Triple-A Worcester.

Alfaro hit .320 with 21 extra-base hits including six home runs, 30 RBIs and a .886 OPS in 43 games for the WooSox this season.

With no opportunities in Boston on the horizon, Alfaro exercised a June 1 opt-out and quickly landed with the Colorado Rockies. One month later, he was put back into free agency and has found a home on Boston's roster while Reese McGuire battles an oblique sprain.

The Red Sox have been forced to play Connor Wong heavily as of late, with Hamilton serving in a reserve role. The added veteran presence could allow for manager Alex Cora to divvy up the reps more evenly, though Wong still would be the primary option.

Alfaro is not a great defender and his bat is streaky at the big-league level but he'll provide some pop at the back of the order while McGuire is on the shelf.