The Boston Red Sox are currently embroiled in the American League Wild Card race, sitting two games behind the Kansas City Royals for the final spot with a record of 53-46. However, recent setbacks, including a sweep by the Los Angeles Dodgers and an extra-innings loss to the Colorado Rockies on Monday night, have left uncertainty about the team’s strategy approaching next Tuesday’s MLB trade deadline.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, there is internal debate within the Red Sox organization. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow and the front office face conflicting decisions: whether to aggressively pursue trades to reward a team that has exceeded expectations this season or to exercise patience and nurture a promising young core.
Manager Alex Cora and players are vocal about their desire for the team to make acquisitions, and Boston has already been linked with several potential targets. Should the Red Sox opt to buy, here are three players who have been discussed:
1. **Jameson Taillon, SP, Chicago Cubs**: The Red Sox have engaged in talks with the Cubs regarding Taillon, a 6-foot-5 right-hander who is enjoying a strong comeback season with a 7-4 record, 3.10 ERA, and 1.161 WHIP in 16 starts. Acquiring Taillon, under contract through 2026, could bolster Boston’s rotation, likely requiring the sacrifice of one or two promising prospects.
2. **James Paxton, SP, Free Agent**: Recently designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers, Paxton is reportedly of interest to the Red Sox, who are familiar with the left-hander from his previous stints with the team. With an 8-2 record and 4.43 ERA this season, Paxton could provide much-needed depth as a fifth starter.
3. **Luis Rengifo, INF, Los Angeles Angels**: Seeking a right-handed bat to balance their predominantly left-handed lineup, the Red Sox have targeted Rengifo. Despite currently being on the injured list, Rengifo’s versatility and strong performance against left-handed pitching (.380 batting average, .955 OPS) make him an attractive option for Boston.
Additionally, the Red Sox are reportedly exploring options to bolster their bullpen, particularly targeting left-handed relievers who can generate more strikeouts than current options. Potential targets include Tanner Scott (Miami Marlins), Andrew Chafin (Detroit Tigers), Andrew Nardi (Miami Marlins), and Garrett Cleavinger (Tampa Bay Rays).
As the trade deadline approaches, Boston faces critical decisions that will shape their roster for the remainder of the season and potentially impact their postseason aspirations.