Red Sox reportedly signing Jonny Gomes to 2-year contract

The Boston Red Sox are closing in on a two-year deal with free agent outfielder Jonny Gomes, according to a report by Sean McAdam of Comcast SportsNet New England. Scott Lauber of the Boston Herald also endorsed the report and stated that an industry source confirmed that the two sides were negotiating a two-year deal, which is still pending a physical exam.

According to Lauber, the signing of Gomes would not stop the team from retaining the services of free agent outfielder Cody Ross as the club is apparently interested in a pair of everyday outfielders to help center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury.

Gomes was originally drafted in the 18th round of the 2001 MLB Draft by the Tampa Bay Rays. Following the 2008 season, he signed a minor league contract with the Cincinnati Reds and spent two years with the club prior to being traded to the Washington Nationals for Bill Rhinehart and Chris Manno. In January of 2011, he signed a one-year contract with the Oakland Athletics.