The Cardinals acquired shortstop Julio Lugo and cash considerations from the Red Sox for outfielder Chris Duncan and a player to be named later or cash considerations. The move came just hours after Boston snagged first baseman Adam LaRoche from the Pirates in a deal for prospects. Lugo, 33, was designated for assignment on July 17 and hit .284 with a home run and eight RBIs in 37 games for the Red Sox this season. "We felt that Julio could help our club by improving our middle-infield depth," Cardinals vice president/general manager John Mozeliak said in a news release. "He gives us another right-handed bat and provides [manager] Tony [La Russa] with additional flexibility. We're optimistic that he will respond positively to a fresh start here in St. Louis." Duncan, who will be optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket, batted .227 with five home runs and 32 RBIs in 87 games for the Cardinals this season, ranking second on the club with 41 walks. The 28-year-old was optioned to Triple-A after Tuesday night's game and made 68 appearances (64 starts) in left field as well as six at first base for St. Louis.