The BoSox received infielder from the Washington club on the weekend in to get lefty starter. The trade, first reported Saturday evening, sends Mead, a prospect in his mid-20s prospect, from Washington's farm system to the club. Mead, listed as a notable young player, slashed strongly while racking up long balls in the highest farm tier last season, entering his age-25 run. The move solidifies Boston's keystone area while Washington adds a southpaw for its pitching ranks. Boston's front office has been busy on the swap scene, looking to improve depth across the diamond. People close to the talks note that Mead brings strong bat and steady glove that align with how Boston wants to handle its backup crew. In Washington, adding a starter addresses a hole the team has been seeking to patch for weeks. Neither side has spoken on record on long-term plans for the talents. For now, the focus shifts to how the numbers read, where the 24 players will try to win jobs. Takeaway: Boston gets a young bat, Washington gets pitching relief, and the league watches how both develop.