The Boston Red Sox are in the market for a big bat, and there is no bigger bat than Giancarlo Stanton. But where do they stand in the race for the slugger?
Everybody knows who the top free agent bats are: JD Martinez, Eric Hosmer, Jay Bruce, and Mike Moustakas. But you might as well add Giancarlo Stanton to the list. The Boston Red Sox will need to add one of those guys.
It’s no secret that the Miami Marlins are going to make him available via trade. But the kicker is that Stanton has a full no-trade clause, meaning he could nix any trade involving him.
He appeared on Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show in October to discuss his availability and talked about a few teams. He discussed the Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and the New York Mets. But none of those teams appear to be the leader for the slugger from Miami.
Bob Nightengale, a USA Today columnist, tweeted some interesting news regarding the frontrunners in the chase for Stanton.
It would be a stunning upset if #Marlins OF Giancarlo Stanton is traded anywhere besides the #Stlcards or #SFGiants. They each have the money to pull it off, and Cards have loaded farm system, if necessary
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 9, 2017
The Cardinals have been linked to Stanton since the middle of this season, they have long wanted him. The Giants are going to be in the conversation with any major bat this offseason, in hopes of fixing their woes from last season.
But Nightengale has a legitimate point. Both of those teams have deep farm systems and can afford Stanton’s massive contract.
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Despite that, the Red Sox still should be in the running for the slugger.
What the Red Sox lack in minor league talent, they make up for in big league talent. There are plenty of players the Sox could dangle to the Marlins that could get Stanton. As we all know, the Marlins are in need of a young pitcher after the death of Jose Fernandez. Eduardo Rodriguez is somebody the Sox could trade for Stanton.
They also could throw in Jackie Bradley Jr, that way they could also free up a spot in the outfield.
The Red Sox are also one of the few teams that can afford the Stanton deal. In a world where teams are shedding payroll, the Sox are willing to go above the luxury tax. Money is not going to be an issue in getting Stanton, the issue will be who the Sox are willing to give up.
Related Story: Why the Red Sox should pursue Marcell Ozuna
Either way, look for the Sox to make big moves this offseason. When they do, make sure you stay with us at BoSox Injection for the latest updates on all roster moves this winter.