The Chris Sale derby might not be over just yet.
The Washington Nationals emerged overnight as reported front-runners to acquire the left-handed pitcher from the White Sox, but it appears the Boston Red Sox might make a strong push toward acquiring the Chicago ace.
Multiple reports indicated the Red Sox still are in on Sale, including FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal, who says Boston has “built momentum” toward a deal.
The Nationals remain in the mix, though, as do the Atlanta Braves, according to USA TODAY’s Bob Nightengale. SB Nation’s Chris Cotillo also reported the Braves’ interest in Sale — they’re said to “love” the southpaw — but it’s unclear whether the Braves have the pieces to get a deal done.
Nightengale adds the Red Sox and White Sox have talked about Sale since July, and have had “extensive talks” since the start of the winter meetings.
It’s still very much unclear what it would take for any specific team to acquire Sale, but the White Sox obviously are going to look for a huge return. He’s considered by many to be the best left-handed starter aside from Clayton Kershaw, and he’ll be just 28 on Opening Day. Sale’s contract also is very team-friendly; he’s owed just $38 million over the next three seasons, assuming any team picks up his options for 2018 and 2019.
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Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
