Red Sox Shock with Deadline Trade to Acquire Former NL Rookie of the Year
The Boston Red Sox are in search of a right-handed batter, with a highly sought-after second baseman about to hit the market who could add some power to their lineup.
Entering Saturday with a record of 51-42, the Red Sox are tied with the Kansas City Royals for the third Wild Card spot in the American League. Alex Cora’s team appears poised for a playoff push, but they’ll need to strengthen their batting lineup to succeed.
The Red Sox’s urgent need for a right-handed hitter arises from their lefty-heavy lineup, which has struggled against left-handed pitchers this season. This issue was highlighted by MLB.com’s Ian Browne after Boston’s 6-1 loss to left-handed pitcher Cole Ragans of the Royals on Friday night.
“Boston’s record against lefty starters this season is 12-15, compared to 39-27 vs. righties,” Browne said. “Against lefty starters, the Sox have a 28.6 percent strikeout rate, which is 30th in MLB. Their .379 slugging percentage against lefties ranks 19th. Adding a right-handed bat will undoubtedly be one of chief baseball officer Craig Breslow’s top priorities before the July 30 Trade Deadline.”
As Breslow evaluates potential additions from teams across Major League Baseball, he is likely to consider Jonathan India of the Cincinnati Reds, who has been in exceptional form since late May. Entering Friday, India had an impressive slash line of .347/.431/.565 over 43 games since May 24.
India would be an excellent addition to Boston’s lineup, and his ability to play second base would fit well within the Red Sox’s defensive strategy.
The key question for Breslow is whether India will be available.
He might be. The Reds’ performance over the next two weeks will be crucial in determining whether they decide to buy or sell before the deadline. Cincinnati, currently at 46-49 and tied for last place in the National League Central, is only three games back in the NL Wild Card race.
Given the Reds’ slim margin for error, any slip in their performance could prompt Breslow to make a compelling offer for India.
