“St. Louis signed infielder Joe Thurston and catcher Justin Knoedler to Minor League contracts with invitations to Major League Spring Training. Thurston, 29, was once one of the Dodgers’ more highly-regarded prospects and is coming off a fine season with the Red Sox’s Triple-A Pawtucket affiliate”
From MLB Trade Rumors, Dec. 16.
Joe could be this year’s Craig Breslow. Real talent, late bloomer, allowed to walk. Some “knowing” voices whispered he was a little too old, not quite good enough, etc. Yet, Craig emerged as one of Cleveland’s best relievers this year, as an older rookie. We didn’t try him, didn’t use him and didn’t even trade him. He just walked. Ditto for Joe.
Playing 2nd base this year, with solid defense, Joe’s offense helped push the PawSox to the playoffs with, in 507AB, . . . .316/11/64, .367+.456=.823 and 19 SB.
He never gave up, worked through his issues, finally hit his stride. Good bat, good IF and OF glove, real speed. He was a hard working clubhouse leader and won the PawSox MVP award just before they said goodbye. I really like Joe’s style of play, and his grit for hanging in there through several trades, and improving his skills.
I had hoped he would replace Alex as backup infielder (also excellent in the OF) and Julio’s speed on base, and keep the clubhouse loose and motivated.
Hope something good happens for him in St. Louis. Good luck Joe.
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