The Boston Red Sox need another starting pitcher and a handful of options have been floated as possible solutions.

Realistically, the Red Sox should be able to get whoever they want this offseason. They traded Rafael Devers away and his massive contract. The Red Sox do have some financial questions to address, like the future of Alex Bregman and Lucas Giolito, but even if they are both back, there should be plenty of space for Boston to operate. Plus, the Red Sox have one of baseball’s best farm systems still and plenty of trade chips at their disposal.

But, who could make sense for the Red Sox? Well, if Boston really wants to improve it needs another frontline starter, as chief baseball officer Craig Breslow noted. If the Red Sox land a No. 2 hurler to slot in after Garrett Crochet and ahead of Brayan Bello, the Red Sox could have the makings of one of baseball’s best rotations. Because of that, the Red Sox should give the Washington Nationals a call and try to pry away 26-year-old All-Star MacKenzie Gore.

Sep 11, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore (1) pitches in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images / Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Here’s a mock trade to bring MacKenzie Gore to Boston:

Red Sox receive: Left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore

Nationals Receive: Outfielder Wilyer Abreu, Infielder Vaughn Grissom, Outfielder Nelly Taylor (Red Sox No. 17 prospect).

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