The Red Sox have reportedly traded Connelly Early to the Nationals for third baseman Curtis Mead. (AP photo)

BOSTON – The Boston Red Sox, in a search for more offense, have dealt promising young lefty rookie pitcher Connelly Early to the Washington Nationals for third baseman Curtis Mead.

Mead is hitting at last look .254 but with 17 homers and 48 RBIs in a breakout season. If you’re looking for negatives, it’s his fourth time getting traded, and third time in the last calendar year.

In 17 starts for the Red Sox, the 6-3, 195 pound Early is 7-5, 3.44, and was one of the more reliable in a stable of young starters that the Red Sox have.

Meanwhile, Ranger Suarez is rejoining the rotation with a start today vs. Toronto.