The MLB trade deadline is still three weeks away, and the Boston Red Sox's plan, like many other clubs, is still uncertain.
Alex Cora shared that he wants the Sox to "get greedy." Reporters and experts are also conflicted on Boston's ideal path — some say buy, some say sell, some say both. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow didn't help quell the debate on Sunday Night Baseball.
Buster Olney reported before the game that the Red Sox are still uncertain what their deadline plan will be. Boston has been hot since the start of June, and their recent record has fans pressuring the front office to take an aggressive approach before the July 30 deadline. Most want them to buy.
Olney shared Boston's most likely plan if it becomes a buyer. Red Sox fans know Breslow has been seeking a starting pitcher to bolster the rotation, but the CBO also shared that he hoped to sign a shortstop. The emergence of David Hamilton and Ceddanne Rafaela's defense has lessened that need for now.
Buster Olney reveals potential deadline plan if Red Sox choose to add before July 30
"They better be buyers."@Ken_Rosenthal thinks the Red Sox could go after an infielder or starting pitching before the trade deadline pic.twitter.com/ICyQaSokVg
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 6, 2024
Any contending team could benefit from an offensive boost, and a powerful, right-handed bat will be the Red Sox's next target. Boston's order is packed with lefties, and Triston Casas' return will add another to the mix.
The Red Sox's outfield is packed and already includes a powerful righty in Tyler O'Neill. Their designated hitter, Masataka Yoshida, has begun to heat up, and pulling him from the lineup after he's been so consistent in recent weeks isn't advisable. Boston's next dose of power may have to come from the infield, or some changes will need to be made in the pastures.
The Angels' Luis Rengifo could be a good choice, although he isn't a consistent home run hitter. He's slashing .315/.358/.442 with six homers this season, but his defense leaves something to be desired.
The Red Sox have a lot of baseball to play and roster moves to make before any trade deadline decisions are final. But the rate they're going, they're a playoff team. Starting pitching depth and some right-handed offense is a must if Boston plans to contend.