MLB Insider Views Red Sox As ‘Strongest Option’ To Make This Trade

The Red Sox clearly are making their presence felt in MLB free agency, but Boston might be exploring the trade market as well.

There’s been speculation about the Red Sox potentially dealing for sure-handed third baseman Nolan Arenado, who would dramatically improve the club’s infield defense. But starting pitching remains a far more pressing need for Boston, and one of the best young arms in baseball appears to be up for grabs.

All signs point to the Chicago White Sox having Garrett Crochet available for trade. At only 25 years old and with a very team-friendly contract, Crochet is a textbook candidate for a blockbuster. And MLB Network’s Jon Morosi believes Boston might be the likeliest landing spot for the southpaw.

“I still believe that of all the potential options for Garret Crochet, the Boston Red Sox stand as the strongest option,” Morosi said Monday on “Hot Stove.”

Morosi’s stance makes sense. The Red Sox have one of the best farm systems in the game, and any trade return for Crochet likely would have to include a top prospect. It’s unclear how willing Boston would be to ship out any of its best youngsters, but the opportunity is there.

Not every MLB insider is gung-ho about the idea of the Red Sox trading for Crochet, though. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal is under the impression that Craig Breslow and company are “more focused on other pursuits.”