MLB Rumors: What Other Teams Heard About Red Sox’s Deadline Plan

It doesn’t seem like the Red Sox will provide any surprises before the Major League Baseball trade deadline.

Anyone who’s followed Boston even marginally this season can identify the areas where the club needs the most improvement. And according to MassLive’s Sean McAdam, teams that have checked in with the Red Sox ahead of the July 30 deadline have received word that Craig Breslow and company are focusing on those pressing matters.

“Teams who have spoken to the Red Sox have heard the team is largely focused on pitching — both rotation adds and bullpen help — and a right-handed hitter, preferably one who can contribute at multiple positions,” McAdam wrote in a column published Sunday.

One solution might have fallen into Boston’s lap Monday. James Paxton was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers, and there reportedly is a “strong likelihood” of the Red Sox exploring a reunion with the veteran southpaw. Boston potentially could link back up with another veteran who is “expected” to be traded by an American League East rival.

All told, there will be options available to the Red Sox front office before the trading window closes. It just will come down to whether or not the club is willing to pay the price for certain trade candidates.