The 2014 Boston Red Sox have flaws. Perhaps the most glaring is the outfield, which has provided very little offensive production all season, ranking last in the majors with a .211 batting average and .614 OPS.
Something needs to change, and a trade might be the best option.
There is talent in the Red Sox’s outfield, but there also are concerns that might not sort themselves out as easily as the team would like. Jonny Gomes struggles against lefties, Grady Sizemore hasn’t found a rhythm, Jackie Bradley Jr. is a work in progress, Daniel Nava looks like a shell of his 2013 self and Alex Hassan is inexperienced. There’s still no timetable for when Shane Victorino and/or Mike Carp will return from injuries.
Making a trade is easier said than done, largely because of supply and demand. There aren’t many teams ready to chalk this season up as a loss — diluting the overall market — and those looking to make moves probably have their sights set on acquiring outfield help. The Red Sox need to think outside the box.
A lot could change before the July 31 trade deadline. The picture likely will become much clearer as to which teams are in contention and which players are available. But who wants to wait that long? Probably not the Red Sox.
Below is a list of outfielders who the Red Sox, theoretically, could consider pursuing on the trade market. The list is based on pure speculation and nothing else.
