Veteran first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, 30, designated for assignment by the Washington Nationals earlier this month, and the Boston Red Sox are finalizing a deal, sources told ESPN, paving the way for him to join one of the strongest lineups in baseball.

League sources said late Sunday night that the club was close to finalizing a contract with Nathaniel Lowe, whom they hope will provide a boost at first base, specifically against righthanded hitters.