So, are you wondering, did the Red Sox become a better team after the trade deadline? Before the season started, the Red Sox weren’t expected to be a contender. In fact, I thought this year’s team may surprise many people and I was right. Be sure to visit my 2021 Boston Red Sox Season Predictions – How will the Team Perform post.
Did the Red Sox Become a Better Team?
For the last several weeks, I have been keeping an eye out for anything notable. Though I have seen a lot of deals made by other teams; I have to admit; I have been disappointed in the lack of movement.
Since the age of 6, I have been hooked on the Boston Red Sox. To read more about my love of the team; be sure to check out my Red Sox Fan post.
In fact, last night the team acquired Kyle Schwarber from the Washington Nationals. Hence, the upside is he has a big bat. On the flip side; he was placed on the IL with a hamstring injury and has been out of action since July 3rd.
Will the Sox be able to try him at 1st base? Will Red Sox nation see him playing in the near future? Or, will he remain on the IL for an extended period of time?
In the last few minutes, it was reported that the Sox acquired Hansel Robles from the Minnesota Twins for a right-handed pitcher from the minor leagues. And, Michael Chavis was traded to the Pirates for Austin Davis.
Active Trade Deadline
Meanwhile, we have already seen many deals taking place before the deadline. Moreover, one of the biggest trades made was the Los Angeles Dodgers landed Max Scherzer and Trey Turner from the Washington Nationals. Of course, this puts the Dodgers as a favorite to go far in the playoffs.
And, the Yankees received Anthony Rizzo and Joey Gallo in two separate deals and gave up two of the top prospects with Keibert Ruiz, Josiah Gray, Gerardo Carrillo, and Donovan Casey, as well as they are taking on another $16 million.
Also, the Toronto Blue Jays landed Jose Berrios from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for two top prospects. And, at the last minute, they also acquired Veteran Closer, Brad Hand from the Nationals in exchange for a Triple-A catcher.
Craig Kimbrel who was linked to a reunion with the Red Sox ended up being dealt from the Chicago Cubs to the Chicago White Sox for two major league infielders and a reliever.
In addition, there were a lot of other trades completed before the deadline.
Chaim Bloom’s Final Thoughts
In summary, Chaim Bloom decided not to do anything else. Meanwhile, by the team not making many moves; did they hurt their chances to go far in the playoffs? At the same time; he felt this year’s trade deadline was more a Seller’s Market.
Though the team didn’t do a lot to get better; the team may have enough to make it far in the playoffs behind Alex Cora.
Finally, it was interesting to see that both the Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays weren’t as active in trade activity comparative to the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Yankees. Moreover, many of the contenders obviously did a lot to get better – did the team miss an opportunity to get better? Indeed, time will tell!
As always, I welcome your comments on Did the Red Sox become a better team?
