In mid-June, speculation was rife that Aroldis Chapman, Willson Contreras, and Sonny Gray would sell their Boston-area properties by summer’s end. However, recent developments suggest all three might remain residents well into college move-in day.
The Boston Red Sox emerged from the MLB All-Star break firmly engaged in the American League playoff race. Riding a six-game win streak, they sit just half a game shy of a wild card berth. Previously, many on the team were considered trade candidates, but the outlook has shifted significantly.
The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey quoted an anonymous NL evaluator: “So much for selling; they have to be all in.”
If the Red Sox aren’t sellers, will they become buyers? The answer isn’t straightforward. Several team weaknesses might be addressed internally. Garrett Crochet is on the mend, while pitchers Ranger Suarez and Connelly Early could return soon. Anthony Seigler has temporarily strengthened the infield, and expected returns of Trevor Story and Isiah Kiner-Falefa could solidify these positions further.
The deadline landscape remains complicated. Typically, struggling teams offload talent as successful ones aim to improve their roster. However, the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays, despite being in last place, have substantial payrolls limiting fire sales. Similarly, the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres remain determined to chase postseason dreams despite trailing the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West standings. Even the Detroit Tigers might reconsider trading ace Tarik Skubal.
Retaining an All-Star closer, a star first baseman, and Gray, a potential All-Star, positions the Red Sox as a noteworthy presence in the game nearing the deadline. Although Chapman and Contreras are signed through next season, and Gray faces a $25 million mutual option, Spotrac reports potential deals could benefit long-term goals. If the team falters during challenging games, Contreras and Gray might reconsider waiving their no-trade clauses, despite Contreras’ previous indication against it.
The AL East picture became complex after Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero was hit in the hand during the All-Star Game. Although X-rays returned negative, the Rays are reminded of the Yankees’ decline without Aaron Judge. With division leaders potentially weakened, this might be an optimal time for the Red Sox to make strategic moves.
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