Pablo Sandoval says that apart from the good deal offered to him, history is what ultimately led him to sign with the Boston Red Sox.

It wasn't money that lured him to leave the only organization he knew. The San Francisco Giants matched the Red Sox's offer of five years at US $95 million with a club option for the sixth year.

Like Us on Facebook

SFgate.com posited that maybe he could have left because he wanted to play on the biggest stage in the American League East. Or perhaps it was because he had felt he has accomplished all he could with the Giants.

Whatever the reason may be, he did not divulge it to the public when the Red Sox introduced him at a news conference.

"It was a tough decision for me," Sandoval said. "It took me a long time to be sure that I was going to make the right decision. The Giants gave me the opportunity to be in the big leagues, opened the door, taught me how to respect the game. The Giants fans are one of the best.

He went on to say that at the time, he wanted to close the cycle he got out there. He was seeking a new challenge.

Sandoval did offer some hints though.

He said nostalgically that as an 18-year old, he watched the Red Sox win their first World Series in 86 years. He added that he wanted to go to team with a legacy.

Another hint might be the teammates that he has acquired.

He said that when he was in Double-A he met Red Sox designated hitter David Ortiz who he became friends with. Fellow newcomer Hanley Ramirez also came to the Red Sox as well.

Whatever his reason for coming to Boston, Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington said that he is a person who embodies a lot of what they care about.

Though Sandoval's reason is unclear, the Red Sox's own reason for getting him isn't.

Furthermore, Cherington said, "Everything about him we learned through our research suggested this is a guy who loves the game, loves to play, loves to win. We wanted that type of person in our clubhouse." 

Tagspablo sandoval, boston red sox, San Francisco Giants