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Boston Red Sox show life by acquiring Kyle Schwarber

By David Hill

Jul 1, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) runs to second base after hitting a double against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 1, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) runs to second base after hitting a double against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Over the past few days, the contenders in the American League East had been busy. The Yankees and Blue Jays each improved their rosters, while the Rays had previously acquired Nelson Cruz. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox had done nothing to improve their core.

That changed late Thursday night. The Red Sox have acquired Kyle Schwarber from the Nationals, with minor league pitcher Aldo Ramirez heading to Washington.

Boston Red Sox add more power to lineup with Kyle Schwarber

Schwarber will not make an immediate impact upon the Red Sox. He is currently on the Injured List due to a strained hamstring, but is expected to return by mid-August. That injury coincided with an impressive run, as Schwarber had rediscovered his form after being inserted into the leadoff role in Washington.

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A first time All Star, Schwarber would add more thunder and an ability to get on base to the Red Sox lineup. He has posted a solid .253/.340/.570 batting line in his 304 plate appearances, hitting 25 homers. In theory, Schwarber would solve Boston’s ongoing issues in left for the rest of the season once he is back.

In exchange, the Nationals get an intriguing prospect in Ramirez. Although he had just turned 20 years old, he has been able to steadily move up the Red Sox ladder. He performed well for the Salem Red Sox in A-ball, with a 2.03 ERA and a 1.129 WHiP over 31 innings, striking out 32 batters with eight walks.

Ramirez is on the smaller side, at 6′ tall and 191 pounds, which leads to questions about his long term role. He does have the type of arsenal that could work as a starter, with a mid 90s fastball, solid breaking pitch, and an above average change. Add in his excellent command, and Ramirez could be a surprise down the line.

This is the type of player that the Nationals need to be adding. As they have completely restocked their farm system over the past few hours, they are looking to be in much better shape for the future. The Red Sox, meanwhile, are doing what they can to keep pace in a much more competitive AL East.

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The Boston Red Sox have landed Kyle Schwarber. While he will not impact their lineup immediately, he will be a solid boost once healthy.

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