MLB Trade Rumors: Red Sox Expected To Address This Position Before Deadline

Most trade talks link the Boston Red Sox with pitching before next Thursday’s MLB trade deadline. While they could seek rotation help, they’ll also likely address one lineup deficiency.

Buster Olney discussed Boston’s deadline plans with Boston Globe reporters Alex Speier and Peter Abraham on NESN’s “310 To Left” podcast. The ESPN insider said Friday that there’s an “assumption” around the league that the Red Sox will acquire a first baseman.

Triston Casas underwent season-ending surgery to repair a ruptured left patellar tendon in early May. Abraham Toro and Romy Gonzalez have predominantly handled first-base reps ever since.

Those journeyman haven’t hurt Boston, providing replacement-level production (0.0 WAR) and league-average offense (100 wRC+). Yet an inspiring contender will desire more power from the position, especially after the Red Sox traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants.

Unfortunately, Boston missed out on a top option when the Arizona Diamondbacks sent Josh Naylor to the Seattle Mariners on Thursday night. Olney expected the Red Sox to pursue the 28-year-old, who’s batting .292/.360/.447 this season.

“I actually had folks with other teams speculating that the Red Sox would be involved with Naylor,” Olney said. “They thought that he was a really good fit for them.”

There aren’t many impact alternatives on the market, but Ryan O’Hearn stands out as a sensible pivot. The Red Sox are reportedly “very interested” in the All-Star, who wields an .876 OPS against right-handed pitchers.

O’Hearn is in a contract year, and the last-place Baltimore Orioles have indicated plans to move veteran players on expiring deals.

Olney also said that adding a starting pitcher will be pivotal to Boston’s playoff push. He confirmed that the Red Sox have contacted the San Diego Padres about Dylan Cease and believes they will also inquire about Seth Lugo, Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.