It’s clear the Boston Red Sox need to make a major move this offseason, but what that move will be is still uncertain as the regular season draws to a close.
After showing promise earlier in the summer, the Red Sox faltered in August and September. With a record of 80-78, their playoff chances are less than one percent, and they could be officially eliminated as early as Wednesday night if they lose to the Toronto Blue Jays.
While the Red Sox lineup has had bright moments in 2024, there are some clear weaknesses. They strike out too often, the outfield is overcrowded, and there’s an imbalance with too many left-handed hitters.
A large portion of Boston’s best hitters this season (like Jarren Duran and Rafael Devers) are left-handed, as are many of their top prospects. Given their other pressing needs, particularly in starting pitching and a right-handed power hitter, it seems likely that one of these left-handed hitters might be traded.
On Wednesday, NBC Sports Boston’s John Tomase suggested that rookie right fielder Wilyer Abreu might be a trade candidate to make room for top prospect Roman Anthony in the lineup.
“Abreu’s value goes beyond his offense (.796 OPS) and strong arm in right field,” Tomase said. “He brings intangibles similar to Trot Nixon’s, and as the Red Sox aim to build their next great team, players with toughness and intensity like Abreu are vital.”
“Still, with Ceddanne Rafaela best suited for center field, where he has Gold Glove potential, and Anthony needing a spot, trading an outfielder seems logical, but not easy.”
Although Abreu remains a contender for the American League Rookie of the Year, his weaker performance in September will likely hurt his chances. Nevertheless, the 25-year-old has been impressive in his debut season, contributing 3.2 WAR with his consistent performance on both offense and defense.
Defensively, Abreu has six outs above average in right field, just one behind league leader Jackson Chourio. His arm is particularly noteworthy, boasting a 94.7 mph average throw velocity, placing him in the 98th percentile.
Trading a player like Abreu is risky. While Anthony’s potential may be greater, he hasn’t proven himself in the majors yet. If Abreu continues to improve elsewhere, it could end up being one of the Red Sox’s biggest regrets of the decade.
Whether the Red Sox are willing to take that risk in pursuit of the playoffs remains to be seen.
