The Boston Red Sox received infielder from the Washington Nationals on the weekend in return for lefty starter. The deal, first reported Saturday evening, sends Mead, a prospect in his mid-20s infielder, from their farm system to the Red Sox. Mead, marked as a notable young player, batted strongly while racking up home runs in top minor league level this past year, entering his age-25 run. The trade strengthens Boston's keystone area while Washington gains a left arm for its pitching ranks. The Red Sox brass has been noisy on the deal circuit, looking to upgrade flexibility across the infield. Those in the know note that Mead brings a compact swing and quiet defense that fit how Boston wants to operate its backup crew. On the other side, adding a rotation arm addresses a hole the team has been hoping to fill for a stretch. Neither side has commented publicly on future fit for the talents. For today, the focus turns to camp showings, where the 24 players will try to earn spots. Outlook: Boston gets a young bat, Washington gets pitching relief, and the league keeps an eye on how both develop.