Mets to Deal Marshall to Red Sox Today

The New York Mets will trade first baseman Mike Marshall to the Boston Red Sox for three minor leaguers today, the Mets announced Friday night.

The Mets said Marshall would be traded for two Class-A minor leaguers now and one to be named. The reason for the one-day delay was to get Marshall off the 15-day disabled list, where he was placed after complaining of a stomach ailment--and arguing bitterly with Met Manager Bud Harrelson about lack of playing time.

Marshall began the season as the Mets’ starting first baseman but has hit .239 with six homers and 27 runs batted in in 53 games. He lost his job to Dave Magadan, who has taken advantage of the opportunity by hitting .346.

The Red Sox sent 19-year-old right-handed pitcher Greg Hansell, 7-10 with a 3.59 earned-run average with Winter Haven in the Florida State League; and outfielder Ender Peroza, 20, who was batting .230 with three homers and 26 RBIs with Lynchburg, Va., of the Carolina League.

Met Vice President Joe McIlvaine said he had tried to obtain major league talent for Marshall but was unable to do so.

In nine seasons with the Dodgers, Marshall hit .271 with 137 homers and 484 RBIs. He was on the disabled list on five occasions with the Dodgers.

“He’ll give us some bench strength.” Boston Manager Joe Morgan said. “He can play right field or first base and hopefully hit the longball for us.”

The Red Sox entered play today trailing the first-place Toronto Blue Jays by one game in the American League East.

“He won’t be ready for a while,” Morgan said. “He’ll be here (Saturday) but will need a little working out before we can use him. “He may pinch-hit in the Tiger series.”

Marshall was not available for comment.

Marshall was in the second year of a $3.5-million contract.