Blockbuster deal is done

The Boston Red Sox sent first baseman Adrian Gonzalez, pitcher Josh Beckett and outfielder Carl Crawford to the Dodgers on Saturday, parting with the high-priced stars in a nine-player trade that was the biggest swap in Los Angeles’ history.

The floundering Red Sox also sent infielder Nick Punto and cash to the Dodgers. The Red Sox acquired first baseman James Loney, pitcher Allen Webster, infielder Ivan De Jesus and two players to be named.

The Dodgers are chasing San Francisco for the N.L. West title and are in the midst of the wild-card race.

For the Red Sox, far back for postseason contention, the trade dismantled an underperforming ballclub and gives them a chance to rebuild without their hefty contracts. Boston stood to save $261 million in salary through 2018.

Gonzalez hit a three-run homer on the second pitch he saw in a Dodgers uniform.

Reds honor Larkin

The Cincinnati Reds retired Barry Larkin’s No. 11 before their game against the St. Louis Cardinals, paying tribute to the Hall of Fame shortstop who led them to the 1990 World Series title.

Larkin, joined on the field by members of his family, former teammates and members of the Reds organization, watched as his number was unveiled, accompanied by a fireworks display.

Larkin, a 12-time All-Star selection, spent his entire 19-year career with Cincinnati and was inducted into baseball’s Hall of Fame this summer.

Bautista back to DL

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Jose Bautista is back on the 15-day disabled list, saddled with the same injury that kept him sidelined for 5 1/2 weeks before his short-lived return on Friday.

Bautista left Toronto’s game against the Baltimore Orioles on in the third inning with discomfort in his left wrist, and after the game the Blue Jays put him on the DL.

Bautista will see a hand specialist today, said Toronto manager John Farrell, who didn’t hesitate yanking the slugger from the game after he complained about soreness in his wrist.

Clemens toes rubber

Roger Clemens is back on the mound at age 50, striking out hitters again. Clemens pitched for the Sugar Land (Texas) Skeeters of the independent Atlantic League. He faced Bridgeport and fanned the first batter he faced, former major leaguer Joey Gathright.

The seven-time Cy Young Award winner, who last pitched for the New York Yankees in 2007, worked a 1-2-3 first inning with two strikeouts. His fastball was clocked at 88 mph.

Clearing the bases

White Sox left fielder Dayan Viciedo was scratched from the lineup because of a sore right shoulder. Jordan Danks started in Viciedo’s place against the Seattle Mariners. … Atlanta Braves right-hander Ben Sheets was placed on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation. … The Boston Red Sox have suspended right-hander Alfredo Aceves for three games for conduct detrimental to the team.