Red Sox way too early trade deadline predictions to upgrade rotation

Red Sox could poach a late bloomer from Oakland

Now, this is not a dream list at all, as we have seen with picks such as Rodon. However, trade targets are usually on close to expiring contracts, with sellers typically being small market teams that fall out of contention. Do not get me wrong, Oakland was a very good team last year and can do the same again this season. This is very dependent on numerous hit or miss players though, who could result in a losing season in Oakland.

Enter Chris Bassit’s expiring contract. Bassit was a late bloomer with relatively little success outside of the past coupe of seasons. He is not the answer for the future like a couple of the younger guys available, but the chances of Oakland resigning a 32-year-old pitcher who on many teams is a middle of the rotation starter is unlikely.

Bassit threw for an ERA of 2.20 last season and has a six-pitch tool set. He is a pitcher that, should his success carry forward into this season, could play a pivotal role for Boston in the fall. His lack of playoff experience is disheartening, but his potential upside is worth a trade that likely would not cost Boston much come the deadline.