Red Sox Trade Rumors: Long-shot blockbuster deals we wish would happen
By Sean Penney
If the Cubs are willing to deal Bryant, we have to assume Rizzo is available too. Boston doesn’t have the assets to acquire both corner infielders but Rizzo is a viable alternative if the cost for Bryant proves to be too much.
The former Red Sox prospect is one we wish never got away yet this could be the chance to rectify that mistake. Rizzo had a solid season, hitting .283/.376/.470 with 25 home runs and 101 RBI. The home run total and OPS were his lowest since 2013 but he comes with a strong track record of four consecutive seasons with 30+ homers prior to that. He’s a durable player, having appeared in 150+ games in five of the last six seasons. Rizzo also earned his second career Gold Glove award this year.
Rizzo is signed for just north of $12 million next season plus two option years for $16.5 million. Trading for him provides an All-Star caliber first baseman for up to three years at a reasonable price. His left-handed bat and solid defense make Moreland expendable. He could be sent back to Chicago in a deal supplemented by prospects or shipped elsewhere to free up a roster spot and shed some salary.
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Are any of these trades likely to happen? Probably not. The reigning champs don’t need to make a blockbuster deal to remain in the mix of contenders in 2019. Running back essentially the same roster would make them the favorites entering the season. That also sets up for a fairly boring offseason. What fun is that? These trade targets may be long shots but this time of year is when we can dare to dream.