However, all this trade and free-agency hype has ignited thoughts of the MLB trade deadline. Thinking about the Red Sox season thus far, with all its highs and lows, do you think the Sox should go after a big name by the July 31 trade deadline?
There’s a lot to consider with this possibility, and at the forefront of the discussion are the recent injuries suffered by Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia and catcher Victor Martinez. WEEI reported Tuesday that Sox general manager Theo Epstein said the organization was going to evaluate the performances of the replacement staff (Jason Varitek and Gustavo Molina for Martinez and Bill Hall and Eric Patterson for Pedroia) before exploring trade options.
But let’s take some speculation away from the NBA and point it in the direction of Yawkey Way.
Pedroia and Martinez hit just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Sox injuries this season, and though the team has pulled out back-to-back wins with the newly constructed squad, can they continue the streak with a team strewn with back-ups? Don’t get me wrong, these guys are stepping up to the plate in more ways than one, but would the Sox benefit more from a big-name player before the trade deadline to fill in the gaps?
The outfield is definitely a place where the Sox could use some help, especially with Hall moving in to play second base for Pedroia. Discussion with the Royals could lead to possible deals for Rick Ankiel or David DeJesus. Ankiel, a lefty center fielder, and DeJesus, a multiple-position player batting .332 this season, could each bring necessary assistance to the Sox.
Another recent area of speculation is the bullpen. Though Epstein suggested yesterday to WEEI that the Red Sox administration would tread carefully when considering a new reliever, he also said there was nothing like a good reliever to improve a team's standing. However, the sting of past midseason trades for relievers (Eric Gagne, anyone?) has not faded. Does anyone think the Sox should use their leverage to go after a middle reliever?
More recent rumors have formulated about the Sox going after smaller game, however, as they have reportedly expressed interest in Cubs’ infielder Mike Fontenot (.286 BA, one HR, 16 RBIs) and outfielder Kosuke Fukudome (.270 BR, six HR, 24 RBIs). Though both players are less recognizable by name, they each could provide the Sox with the necessary elements to contend in the second half of the season.
So what’s the verdict, Red Sox Nation? Should the Sox go for more reserved deals in July, or do they have bigger fish to fry? If they go after the big boys, will they be able to contend with their competition looking to do the same thing?
Share your thoughts below. The best comments will be read on NESN’s Red Sox GameDay Live or Red Sox Final.
June 29: Would you give Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano a second chance in Boston?
