The Boston Red Sox have found a shortstop for the 2006 season. Alex Gonzalez signed a one-year deal worth $3 million with the club on Tuesday. Gonzalez, 28, hit .264 with five home runs and 45 RBIs in 435 at-bats with the Florida Marlins last season. The 28-year-old enjoyed his best season in 2004 belting 23 homers and 79 RBIs in 561 at-bats. The former all-star spent all eight of his Major League seasons in Florida. Breaking Down The Deal In signing Alex Gonzalez, the Red Sox fill a void at the shortstop position left by Edgar Renteria (traded to Atlanta). Gonzalez is a defensive wizard ? featuring great range and a strong arm. He has good running speed and some pop in his bat. The downside to the eight-year veteran is his propensity to swing at bad pitches. His .291 career on-base percentage is a dismal statistic. This is likely a desperation move by the Red Sox. After dealing Edgar Renteria to the Braves and prospect Hanley Ramirez to Florida, Boston was left to pick from a weak free agent market of shortstops. Alex Gonzalez could frustrate Red Sox fans in 2006 with his tendency to strike out. The 28-year-old will need stellar defense to compensate for his lack of patience at the plate. It is imperative for Gonzalez to start the season well or GM Theo Epstein will be forced to pursue other options. I predict Gonzalez to hit 5-10 home runs with a .240 batting average in 2006. My Grade: C- Impact Grade: 1.5 of 5 Do you have a question, concern, or comment? ? Feel free to email me at [email protected] ? Forecast 06: coming in March