So, it is getting that time of the season and the Sox biggest trade needs are an everyday third baseman and a power bat. Although the Red Sox are in first place, they need to keep their focus as the trade deadline approaches.
Sox Biggest Trade Needs
In the first place, the Sox have been playing better in the last month. However, there are still some question marks. Although Boston has been at the top of their game with the bullpen, they need to keep their options open. Since pitching wins championships, it is important to be open.
In the same way, the biggest problem for the Sox is at third base. With Pablo Sandoval on the DL with an ear infection, he hasn’t been a good fit for this team.
For me, one of the biggest needs for the Sox is a power bat to replace David Ortiz’s numbers. Since David Ortiz retired, no one has been close to his production in power hits. Although the Sox has shown some signs of power recently, they are still behind many of the teams in home runs.
Red Sox Chatter
With the trade deadline approaching, there continue to be daily reports. One of my questions was answered on Friday, July 14th when the Red Sox released Pablo Sandoval which I expected.
Along with the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals, the Sox has been scouting Pat Neshek of the Philadelphia Phillies. Neshek is an all-star with a 1.27 ERA with a sidearm delivery. In addition, he has struck out 36 batters in 35 innings at the All Star break.
In addition to Neshek, reports are there are several other relievers that will be available at the trade deadline. Hence, there are reports that the Florida Marlins will trade A.J. Ramos and David Phelps. Also, there are reports that David Robertson, Mark Melancon, Sean Doolittle, Ryan Madson, Justin Wilson and Brad Hand may be available as well.
Conclusion
So, with the trade deadline approaching, there are many rumors circulating. The trade deadline is 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 31st.
Because, I wrote a prior post on the Red Sox Spring Report Card, I think this team needs to be active to make the post season. In other words, I feel this team needs some pop in their offense.
Will the Red Sox be active at the trade deadline? I think the team needs to shake up their offense.
As always, I welcome your comments on what trades you would like to see the Red Sox make.
Thanks….Lynne. That was very informative. Keep up the good work.
Jeff, Thank you. Now, the Sox need to step it up in their efforts to be better either through trades or internally with clutch and power hitting. With the trade deadline a little over a week away, let’s hope something good happens.