It's been a trying season for Julio Lugo offensively and defensively. That could necessitate a move by the Sox if Lugo's fortunes don't change rapidly.
Lugo, who signed a four-year, $36 million contract just prior to the 2007 baseball campaign, has nearly as many errors as RBIs this season and hasn't inspired a great deal of confidence. The 32-year-old continues to lead the majors with 16 errors and has watched his batting average decline from .295 to .274 over the last 28 games. On most nights, the shortstop has been able to compartmentalize his offensive and defensive efforts, and hasn't allowed his erratic throws take him out of all-important at bats. "When something happens, it's done," said Lugo. "You've got to separate defense and offense. Man, nobody wants to make an error. I come in here and try to do my best.
"I feel bad that I make errors," said Lugo. "I feel bad. I feel awful. But I just have to go out there and concentrate on the next play. I've been through bad things, and I know where I have to reach. I know I'm a good player."
But there's also an alarming decline in power from past seasons for Lugo, when he could be counted on to threaten double-digit home run totals. The lithe infielder has totaled less than eight home runs only twice in his seven full big league seasons, but has only one round-tripper during a lackluster first half.
Lugo's slugging percentage is also 50 points off his career mark, a clear indication that the sting has largely left the shortstop's lumber collection. If the bat and glove continue at this underwhelming pace, however, it wouldn't be shocking to hear the Red Sox front office discuss trade options or an expanded role for infield prospect Jed Lowrie.
The 24-year-old Lowrie is hitting .282 with 15 extra base hits in 42 games for Class AAA Pawtucket and showed both defensive versatility and diverse offensive skills while hitting .310 with a homer and seven RBIs in 42 at bats with the Sox earlier this year.
ASTROS 3, RED SOX 2: LHP Hideki Okajima entered with a runner on in the bottom of the eighth inning and surrendered an RBI base hit, saddling RHP David Aardsma with his second loss out of the pen this season. 2B Dustin Pedroia and OF Manny Ramirez both blasted solo homers to supply Boston's offense, and RHP Josh Beckett pitched seven innings of two-run ball.
