The 2024 trade deadline was one of the Boston Red Sox's best in years, despite being relatively underwhelming in the grand scheme of things.
The market featured so few clear sellers that teams struggled to make blockbuster exchanges — there were next to none. No top-100 prospects were traded and many clubs opted for multiple smaller additions rather than the big moves fans were clamoring for.
The lack of sellers had teams out of the running for a postseason spot posting insane asking prices for their top-tier talent. Red Sox manager Alex Cora gave some insight into trade negotiations involving some of the most coveted players.
"When we asked for a top reliever the names they mentioned right away were Marcelo (Mayer) and Roman (Anthony)," Cora said on a recent episode of WEEI's "Jones and Mego" show.
Alex Cora shares teams asked for Marcelo Mayer and Roman Anthony in Red Sox trade deadline talks
One day after Red Sox fans got a deadline scare, Roman Anthony showed again why he's likely untouchable. https://t.co/1tNwW3lHoH
— NESN (@NESN) August 1, 2024
Former Marlins reliever Tanner Scott was among the only top-tier talent the Sox were linked to ahead of the deadline — it seems like Miami was in the hunt for a new shortstop and outfielder to bolster its future after it traded most of its active roster. Cora didn't say for sure who asked for Mayer and Anthony as a return, but two of the top 20 prospects in baseball is an utterly delusional asking price for a few months of a closer's services.
A rumor that Anthony was scratched from the Sea Dogs' lineup on deadline day sent Red Sox Nation into a panic. Actual trade rumors involving him or Mayer may have sent some Sox fans into a full-blown spiral.
Despite 2024 being one of Boston's best trade deadlines in years, some members of Red Sox Nation still wanted more out of the Sox's deals. The Red Sox have overperformed this season and aren't among some of the top contenders for a playoff spot. It's not the time to give up Boston's best pieces.
The front office promised competitiveness when Mayer, Anthony and Kyle Teel reach the big leagues, and trading any one of them would go against the future plan they're banking on. Boston should make those elite trade deadline moves in a few seasons, but it isn't ready to sacrifice Mayer or Anthony just yet.