The Red Sox announced that righthanded reliever Beau Vaughan has been traded to the Texas Rangers, as the Player To Be Named Later in the Wes Littleton deal (made Nov. 28).

Vaughan spent almost two full seasons with the Sea Dogs, before getting a late promotion to Triple-A this past August.

He was a goofy character. When David Ortiz came to Portland on a rehab assignment, Vaughan posed as a reporter and asked Ortiz bizarre questions. He dyed his hair often, made outrageous statements and always was ready with his next wisecrack.

Vaughan was also sincere and a loyal teammate. He handled his own struggles in the minors well. He has made 168 career appearances (30 starts) and has a 17-18 record, 3.62 ERA and 23 saves.

Known as the pitcher selected in the round before Jonathan Papelbon was chosen, Vaughan had high expectations placed on him. He is slowly fulfilling them, and maybe a new start with another organization will help.

Vaughan's departure leaves only three players remaining from the 2003 draft - outfielder Mickey Hall (2nd round), Papelbon (4th) and shortstop Iggy Suarez (29th) ... although infielder Zack Borowiak (14th) has indicated he is coming out of retirement for another shot with the Sox.

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