I won't lie to you: I really saw this partnership going better.
The Boston Red Sox and Allen Craig seemed like a match made in Heaven; high-OBP guy with serious pop heading to the organization other than the Cardinals that most valued his talents? In a John Lackey deal? Seemed like a slam dunk.
Unfortunately, things never go as scripted. Joe Kelly's the main piece of that deal, and Craig, fresh off a .316 slugging percentage at Triple-A Pawtucket, has finally played his last game in the organization.
Red Sox announce they've released Allan Craig.
— Ryan Hannable (@RyanHannable) June 30, 2017
This really was a baffling downfall for Craig. In 2013 for a Cards team that lost the World Series to the very same Red Sox, he hit .315 with 13 homers and a more impressive 97 RBI. At the very next trade deadline, he found himself in Boston, and he hit only .128.
He's still only 32! This slippery slope remains entirely confusing. But best of luck to Craig in getting back on track. He's always seemed like a skilled gamer, and we can't help but think there's something left in the tank...somewhere.
Allen Craig will no longer have to show up to the ballpark to receive a paycheck. The Red Sox have released him.
— Jason Mastrodonato (@JMastrodonato) June 30, 2017
Perhaps a Cardinals reunion?
RELATED SLIDESHOW: 2017 MLB season (provided by photo services)