The Boston Red Sox find themselves in a familiar spot, sitting at the bottom of the AL East with a 25-33 record. But don’t count them out just yet.
Rumor has it they’re gearing up to be buyers as the trade deadline approaches. Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow isn’t ready to throw in the towel, and with a roster that’s just a couple of tweaks away from serious contention, the Sox might be poised for a strategic shake-up.
They’ve got a treasure trove of prospects, and the deadline is the perfect stage for them to make a splash.
Despite being in the division’s cellar, the Red Sox are only three games out of a Wild Card spot. That means they could be willing to part with some fan-favorite (or not-so-favorite) players to bolster their short-term prospects. Let’s dive into some potential trade pieces:
1. Masataka Yoshida (OF/DH)
Masataka Yoshida’s name has been swirling in trade rumors for a while now. After signing a five-year, $90 million deal in the 2022-2023 offseason, he’s been a staple in the Red Sox lineup, hitting .282 with a solid .337 on-base percentage over his first three seasons.
Injuries have been a concern, but when he’s healthy, Yoshida is a force at the plate. He finished the 2025 season on fire, posting a .375/.385/.563 slash line and delivering a clutch two-run single in the Wild Card Series against the Yankees.
The big question is whether Yoshida is worth his $18.6 million annual salary. For most teams, probably not.
To move him, Breslow might need to sweeten the pot with a top-15 prospect. Teams like the Minnesota Twins, where his skills could truly shine, might be the best fit.
2. Greg Weissert (RHP)
Greg Weissert emerged as a top reliever in 2025, boasting a 2.82 ERA and 57 strikeouts in 67 innings. This year, however, has been a different story.
He’s allowed five homers and 11 earned runs in just over 23 innings, pushing his ERA to 4.24. Despite his struggles, Weissert remains a favorite within the organization, and he could be part of a trade package.
Some teams might see potential in him and be willing to take a chance.
3. Danny Coulombe (LHP)
The Red Sox were on the hunt for a reliable lefty in their bullpen, but Danny Coulombe hasn’t quite fit the bill. With a 6.55 ERA and only eight strikeouts in 16 appearances, the 38-year-old is likely not part of the team’s long-term plans.
He’s on a one-year deal, making him a potential rental for teams in need of left-handed relief. Moving him now could help the Sox address their bullpen issues.
4. Jarren Duran (OF/DH)
Jarren Duran is a bit of a wild card. If trading Yoshida proves too costly, Duran could be next in line.
He’s been one of the team’s hottest hitters and a clubhouse leader, under team control until 2028. Trading him would require a significant return, potentially involving a high-caliber player like Yordan Alvarez.
The Royals, hungry for offense, could be a potential landing spot, although finding the right trade partner might be tricky.
5. Franklin Arias (SS)
Franklin Arias has been turning heads as one of baseball’s top prospects, climbing to 10th overall in the rankings. His impressive .331/.402/.624 slash line, along with 12 homers and 31 RBIs, has made him a coveted asset.
Trading Arias would require a blockbuster deal, potentially for a star like Yordan Alvarez or Ketel Marte. Otherwise, the Red Sox might hold onto him until the offseason.
The Clock is Ticking for Breslow
With two months until the trade deadline, the pressure is on for Breslow. His job could be on the line, and ownership’s patience is wearing thin.
To turn the season around, the Red Sox need a powerful bat to propel them forward. If they can snag one at the deadline, they might just break through and make a serious playoff push.
