The Boston Red Sox are in a position to add to their team in the coming days, but that does not mean they won’t be willing to part ways with any of their current contributors.
Last month, the Red Sox looked like they were heading toward being sellers, and a player like Aroldis Chapman figured to be someone who could yield them a solid return at the deadline. Now, trading Chapman seems like a very remote possibility.
However, trading Chapman could be something the team does consider. He is going to be a free agent after the season, and there could be some concern about him regressing in the next couple of months. FanSided’s Chris Landers listed Chapman as a player the Red Sox could trade. Trading him would not necessarily be the biggest blow to the team, but it would leave them with some question marks.
“Of course, Chapman is also going to hit free agency again in a few months’ time, and Emmanuel Clase being abruptly removed from the market has even further narrowed the choices for contenders looking for relief help,” wrote Landers. “We know that Breslow always has one eye on the future, and we know that relievers are volatile and that Chapman’s command could revert back to its previous level at any time. If a team like the Philadelphia Phillies calls offering a haul for his services, would the Red Sox really turn down the chance to add meaningful pieces for the future without torpedoing the present?”
The Red Sox could view Jordan Hicks as their future closer. They acquired him in the Rafael Devers trade and he could be the closer next season if the team lets Chapman walk in free agency. Trading Chapman now could vault Hicks into that role full-time.
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The Red Sox could help strengthen their roster in other spots by trading Chapman or simply loading up on pieces for the future. Trading a closer in the middle of a postseason push may seem odd, but Breslow may be willing to do so if it keeps the Red Sox in contention while also preparing for the future.
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