BoSox get CF Kotsay from Braves day after Drew hits DL

Kotsay was scratched from Atlanta's starting lineup Tuesday night, raising speculation that a trade was pending. He walked as a pinch hitter in the ninth inning.

"I'd have to say it's my weirdest night as a professional in the big leagues," Kotsay said after the game. "I've never been scratched for that type of reason."

The Braves got minor league outfielder Luis Sumoza in the deal. The 20-year-old Sumoza batted .301 in 51 games for Class A Lowell of the New York-Penn League this season.

Wren said the Braves were interested in signing Sumoza a few years ago.

"So we had a lot of background on him. He has a lot of upside. That's what you strive for in a trade like this," Wren said.

Atlanta obtained Kotsay from the Athletics on Jan. 14. Coming off back surgery, he hit only .214 with one homer in 56 games for Oakland last year.

Kotsay has a .282 career batting average with 109 homers and 597 RBI.

"He's going to be a great addition. He's one of those leader-type guys," Red Sox pitcher Josh Beckett said.

To make room for Kotsay on the roster, Boston designated infielder-outfielder Joe Thurston for assignment. Thurston was called up Tuesday from Triple-A Pawtucket.

Third baseman Mike Lowell, on the disabled list with a strained muscle on his right side, hit off a tee Wednesday and said it went well.

Beckett said he still plans to pitch Friday night against the Chicago White Sox after skipping a turn in the rotation because of numbness and tingling in his right arm.

"Just day to day. We're going to keep checking. Be smart with it," Beckett said, adding that he appreciates the Red Sox being cautious with him. "We're not talking about the end of a season, we're talking about the end of a career when you're dealing with a pitcher's arm."

The right-hander, who is 11-9 with a 4.34 ERA, said his elbow has bothered him on and off this season.

"We're just dealing with it the best way we can. I don't think we can do anything different," Beckett said.

Epstein said the Red Sox will keep a close eye on Beckett this week.

"Even though he's scheduled to pitch Friday, we are evaluating on a day-to-day basis," the GM said. "The key is not to let guys play when they're in a vulnerable state."