In the wake of franchise cornerstone Alex Bregman ending his nine-year stint in Houston to accept a three-year, $120 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, there’s at least half a moment to spare to appreciate the man who was a driving force in two World Series championships and seven consecutive trips to the American League Championship Series.

The veteran left-hander, who signed with Boston on a two-year deal, is working his way back from Tommy John surgery and is expected to be ready in time for the second half. Manager Alex Cora has high hopes for Sandoval, who compiled a 3.53 ERA in 380 1/3 innings (69 starts) from 2021 through 2023 with the Los Angeles Angels.