The Boston Red Sox might be reconsidering their pursuit of an ace pitcher before the trade deadline.
Currently, Boston is inquiring about various starting pitchers, with chief baseball officer Craig Breslow likely aiming for a veteran. However, due to a limited market, Breslow might have to consider pitchers of any age as long as they can strengthen the Red Sox rotation.
Recent reports suggested that Boston had a chance to acquire Detroit Tigers All-Star Tarik Skubal, but that opportunity seems to have closed.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Skubal will remain with Detroit. On Sunday, Nightengale dismissed the possibility of Skubal being traded, which disappointed Red Sox fans.
“Enough with the silly Tarik Skubal trade rumors,” Nightengale said. “The Detroit Tigers are not trading him.”
Skubal’s talent could have significantly boosted Boston’s playoff hopes. With Skubal likely off the table, Breslow and the Red Sox may need to adjust their expectations for the level of available pitching talent.
Alternatively, Breslow could shift his focus from Skubal and aim for a blockbuster deal involving Garrett Crochet, thrilling Red Sox fans.
Fenway Park is set to welcome a new starting pitcher in the next two weeks, but the identity of that pitcher remains uncertain.
