Three Aces for the Boston Red Sox
By Rick McNair
Chris Sale
Boston fans love Mookie Betts. Such an exciting player and with such incredible potential is rare. And potential? Betts has already delivered in a big way. The slash is certainly a statistical eye-catcher with .291/.341/.479 in 2015 but I actually find the power far more intriguing.
In 2015, Betts slammed 18 home runs and had 77 RBI, which is a nice total for a leadoff hitter. The power – home run power – was equally distributed with nine on the road and at home, but what really catches my ancient eyes is 42 doubles and eight triples. Betts has exceptional speed and gap power and is often mentioned as a Mike Trout and Bryce Harper player without the abundant home run totals.
Betts is the real deal and in all probability a future All-Star and possible MVP. Only 23-years-old Betts clearly demonstrated his athleticism with a transfer from second base to the outfield – a seamless transition. This is a once in a generation player.
If you want one of the best pitchers available it will cost you Betts and probably a bit more. That pitcher is Chris Sale of the Chicago White Sox. Take emotion out of the equation and this would be a splendid deal for the Red Sox.
Sale is now a four-time All-Star and his pitching credentials are extraordinary. Twice Sale has led the American League in SO/9 and maintains a low BB/9 of 2.2 for his career, but that BB/9 is far lower the last three seasons. Sale doesn’t walk many and strikes out a bundle. In 2015, Sale had the best SO/W in the league. For those who consider WAR the end all statistic Sale checked in second in the league in 2015 at 6.2. Price was first at 6.4. Need a negative? The BABIP of .323 in 2015 or a GB% of 42.6 – a GB% influenced by strikeouts.
Sale is signed for the next three seasons and is an ace. Sale – at 27-years-old – is in his prime and one would expect many years of productive service. But with pitching there is always the threat of injury and an extensive list can be created just of careers ruined in Boston with arm injuries. The whole risk reward thing.
I would not hesitate to trade Betts (and probably a high minor league talent) for Sale. Sale has been mentioned before and some recent issues in Chicago may make a move even more viable. For Boston, that would mean a need for an outfielder and in comes Rusney Castillo. Downgrade for sure, but compensated by incredible pitching talent.