The Boston Red Sox made a move that shocked their fans and the world on Father’s Day.
Disgruntled star third baseman Rafael Devers was traded to the San Francisco Giants for right-handed pitcher Jordan Hicks, left-handed pitcher Kyle Harrison and two prospects.
Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow is not a popular man right now, but this move does two things for the Red Sox: end the Devers drama and free up a ton of money.
The bottom line is that Devers wanted out. And now that he is, the Red Sox have a gaping hole in their lineup.
If Breslow and the Red Sox want to get on the good side of fans again, they need to bring in a superstar that can replace what Devers brought to the table.
NBC Sports Boston listed several players that the Red Sox could target in free agency after the Devers trade, including the best free agent-to-be.
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Chicago Cubs star right fielder Kyle Tucker, assuming he tests free agency, could be an option for the Red Sox.
Considering Tucker is an outfielder and Boston is loaded with outfielders, this move doesn’t make the most sense. However, Tucker would be the best replacement for Devers and his offensive production.
Tucker, 28, is on his way to his fourth All-Star Game. In 71 games, Tucker has 13 home runs with 43 RBI while slashing .277/.389/.504. He is also 18-for-19 in stolen base attempts.
With the Giants eating all of Devers’ contract, the Red Sox can make a huge splash in the offseason. Signing Tucker could get Breslow out of the doghouse.
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