Trade Deadline Preview: Boston Red Sox
By Drew Jenkins
Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Biggest team needs
1. Outfield help
Jackie Bradley Jr. may still be the answer in center field long-term, and recently called-up Mookie Betts also could be a part of the team’s long term future in the outfield. But, Boston center and right fielders this season are hitting under a .600 OPS, and left fielders are still hitting a paltry .707 OPS. At the very minimum, the Red Sox need an established big leaguer to add to Betts and Bradley.
2. Established pitching
Red Sox ace Jon Lester is a free agent after the season, and the Sox haven’t been able to lock him up to an extension. If he leaves via free agency, which the Sox seem prepared to let him do unless he gives them a good deal, then the Red Sox need some pitching. John Lackey will still be with the team, and the Sox have a plethora of arms in the upper minors that are close to big league ready. But, the Red Sox are going to need another established big league starter in their rotation, both if they hope to compete this season and if they want to compete in future years.
3. Relief help
Targeting relievers is often a cheap way to upgrade a team, and the Sox have areas in their bullpen where they could definitely use an upgrade. Their top 4 relievers have been great, but their bottom 3… not so much. Good relievers change hands often close to the deadline, and it is a place the Sox should look for an easy upgrade.