Red Sox Shortstop Situation Is a Big Deal

Ever since fan favorite Nomar Garciaparra was traded away in 2004 on the final day of the trading deadline, the shortstop position has been a revolving door.

Here is a list of players (in alphabetical order) who appeared in at least one game at shortstop since 2004:

1. Orlando Cabrera
2. Royce Clayton
3. Alex Cora
4. Cesar Crespo
5. Nomar Garciaparra 
6. Alex Gonzalez
7. Nick Green
8. Ricky Gutierrez
9. Jed Lowrie
10. Julio Lugo
11. Alejandro Machado
12. Hanley Ramirez
13. Pokey Reese
14. Edgar Renteria
15. Kelly Shoppach 
16. Ramon Vazquez
17. Gil Velazquez
18. Chris Woodward

After playing for Boston in 2006, Alex Gonzalez was brought back into the mix in 2009. He not only had a defensive answer, but also made an impact on offense, which was an added bonus.

The Sox declined Gonzalez's $6 million option, but that doesn't mean he can't still be the starting shortstop in 2010. According to Tony Massarotti's article in The Boston Globe, after Gonzalez files for free agency, general manager Theo Epstein can start discussions for a new contract that won't cost as much.

Gonzo batted .284 in 44 games with five HRs and 15 RBIs. He didn't fare as well during the postseason as he only went 1-for-6 with a walk and a strikeout.

Should Gonzo be brought back as the everyday shortstop? He certainly proved during his brief time that he's capable of handling it. 

The answer is right in front of Epstein. Now that J.J. Hardy discussions are long gone, he should do the right thing and not overthink the situation.

If not, who else is there to fill in the role?