Boston Red Sox: Possible Jackie Bradley Jr. trade destinations
By Tim Boyle
The Boston Red Sox could possibly trade Jackie Bradley Jr. this offseason. If they do, where will he go?
An early exit from the postseason should mean an active offseason for the Boston Red Sox. Many uncertainties lie ahead, including an offense which lacked power in 2017. They’re already rumored to have interest in slugger J.D. Martinez. Before they sign him, Boston may want to consider trading one of their other outfielders. Most notably, Jackie Bradley Jr. looks like the odd man out.
Mookie Betts and Andrew Benintendi aren’t going anywhere. Betts is a potential MVP with Benintendi viewed as an equally as important piece to the Red Sox future. Bradley Jr. is far more expendable and the guy we should expect shopped this winter.
Many may recall how tough it was for Bradley Jr. to establish himself in the big leagues. He hit below the Mendoza Line through his first 500+ at-bats. It wasn’t until 2015 when he finally began to show promising signs. Bradley Jr. rediscovered his ability to hit home runs after knocking only one in 2014 with 423 opportunities to do so.
The 2016 season was the year when Bradley Jr. finally proved he belonged in MLB. During his 636 plate appearances, Bradley Jr. hit 26 home runs and slashed .267/.349/.486. A 29-game hitting streak early in the year provided him with the chance to finish the season with multiple career-bests.
In this most recent season, the Boston Red Sox center fielder saw his batting line drop to .245/.323/.402. Still, he managed to hit 17 home runs and provide Boston with reliable defense. This and more make him a desirable trade chip.
Should the Boston Red Sox decide to trade Bradley Jr., where could he end up?