Red Sox acquire Duncan, LaRoche

The Boston Red Sox added some depth a day after they dropped out of first in the AL East, and got rid of shortstop Julio Lugo in one of Wednesday’s deals.

Boston traded Lugo and cash to the St. Louis Cardinals for outfielder Chris Duncan, announcing the swap hours after they acquired first baseman Adam LaRoche from Pittsburgh for two minor leaguers.

Etc.

The New York Mets plan to investigate reports that vice president of player development Tony Bernazard challenged members of their double-A affiliate to fight him during a postgame tirade. . . . Minnesota third baseman Joe Crede has an injured right shoulder and will see Dr. Lewis Yocum today in Los Angeles before the team starts a series against the Angels.