The Boston Red Sox have demonstrated a notable turnaround this season, securing 11 straight wins and positioning themselves as a contender in the American League. This resurgence follows a challenging start to the season, which included the firing of manager Alex Cora on April 25, along with most of the coaching staff. Craig Breslow, the team’s chief baseball officer, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to compete for a division title and a deep postseason run, despite early setbacks.
The team’s performance since Cora’s departure has been strong, with a 38-31 record. Boston entered the All-Star break on a winning streak, sweeping series against the Los Angeles Angels, Chicago White Sox, and New York Mets. This success has brought them within a half-game of the third AL wild-card spot.
Despite the recent success, the Red Sox’ plans for the upcoming trade deadline, which is less than three weeks away, are described as fluid. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Boston is not ruling out pursuing additions before the August 3 deadline. However, the team also acknowledges its earlier period of mediocrity, suggesting that a 15-game stretch does not define an entire season.
The Red Sox’ improved standing has implications for potential trades. Initially, the team was seen as a potential seller, with players like right-hander Sonny Gray, first baseman Willson Contreras, and closer Aroldis Chapman considered strong trade candidates. However, with the team’s recent performance, it is now considered increasingly unlikely that Chapman will be traded, according to MLB insider Jon Morosi.
The team’s playoff odds have increased to 44.3 percent, according to FanGraphs, following a recent victory. This shift in momentum presents the Red Sox with an opportunity to become buyers at the deadline, potentially seeking to add more offensive power to their lineup. Despite their winning streak, Boston was tied for 24th in MLB in runs scored this season entering Friday.
The current lineup is notably left-handed heavy, and with some outfielders facing difficulties, the team may look for right-handed outfielders. Potential targets include Orioles outfielder Taylor Ward or Reds utilityman Spencer Steer. Additionally, the return of young star Roman Anthony and AL Cy Young Award finalist Garrett Crochet from injuries in the second half of the season could provide a significant boost, akin to deadline acquisitions.
The organization, under Breslow’s leadership, has maintained a tight-lipped approach regarding potential interest ahead of the deadline. However, reports from early last month indicated that Boston was aggressively seeking a right-handed bat and was even prepared to take on a less favorable contract to achieve this. The team’s interim manager, Chad Tracy, has been credited with contributing to the improved atmosphere surrounding the team since taking over for Alex Cora in April.
The MLB trade market has remained quiet since the All-Star break, but deals are expected to pick up soon. The Red Sox will need to make a decision regarding their trade deadline strategy to avoid standing pat under Breslow’s front office leadership. The team is scheduled to play series against the Rays, Orioles, Blue Jays, A’s, and Dodgers before the trade deadline.
Read Also
Source: sports.yahoo.com
