Rick Porcello‘s name continues to get tossed around in trade talks. And with Boston manager John Farrell saying recently that his team is considering adding pitching depth, many are left wondering whether the Red Sox might check in with the Tigers about the 24-year-old.
We learned early Wednesday that the Red Sox don’t appear to be pursuing Porcello, but FOXSports.com’s Ken Rosenthal reports that the Sox were among the teams scouting the right-hander’s most recent start. The Padres, Rangers, Orioles, Dodgers and Cardinals reportedly were also represented when Porcello pitched in a game between High-A affiliates of the Tigers and Astros on Wednesday.
Keep in mind that this development doesn’t necessarily mean the Red Sox will jump into the mix for Porcello. While they could seek pitching depth, they might instead consider options that wouldn’t require them to part ways with any real talent. The Tigers seem to be looking for a decent return in exchange for Porcello, who is still young and who could still evolve into a very solid major league starter with a bit more consistency.
Porcello went 10-12 with a 4.59 ERA in 31 starts for the Tigers last season. He holds a 48-42 record and a 4.55 ERA in 120 career starts.
ESPN’s Jim Bowden reports that the Padres have turned down two offers from the Tigers. The Padres reportedly declined to deal Huston Street or Luke Gregerson for Porcello.
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