The Boston Red Sox have been busy retooling their rotation this offseason, landing Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo in a pair of moves aimed at stabilizing a pitching staff that’s been anything but consistent in recent years. But even with those additions, there’s still a lingering question: who’s the true No. 2 behind Garrett Crochet?
That’s where MacKenzie Gore enters the conversation.
Gore, the 24-year-old left-hander from the Washington Nationals, has emerged as a potential trade target that could give Boston one of the most electric lefty duos in the game. A deal for Gore wouldn’t just round out the rotation-it could redefine it.
Let’s break it down.
Why Gore Makes Sense for Boston
First, the numbers: Gore finished last season with a 4.17 ERA, 185 strikeouts, and a 1.353 WHIP across 159 innings. Solid numbers, but they only tell part of the story.
Before the All-Star break, Gore was dealing-posting a 3.08 ERA and racking up 138 Ks. That first-half performance earned him an All-Star nod and showed just how dominant he can be when he’s locked in.
But what really makes Gore an attractive target for Boston isn’t just the stuff-it’s the value. He’s under team control for two more seasons, each under the $10 million mark.
That’s a rare combination of upside and affordability, especially for a team like the Red Sox that still has other areas to address this offseason. Locking in a high-ceiling starter without breaking the bank allows Boston to stay aggressive elsewhere.
How He Fits Into the Rotation
Pairing Gore with Crochet would give the Sox two high-octane lefties who can miss bats in bunches. Both are capable of racking up strikeouts and overpowering hitters with electric stuff. And with Gray slotting in as the No. 3, the rotation suddenly has depth, balance, and serious postseason potential.
Gore’s presence would also take pressure off Gray to be a frontline guy at this stage of his career. That’s not a knock on Gray-he’s still a savvy veteran with plenty left in the tank-but he’s best suited as a stabilizer rather than a staff ace. With Gore and Crochet leading the charge, Gray becomes the experienced anchor, and Oviedo adds even more depth.
What It Would Take
Of course, prying Gore away from Washington won’t be easy. The Nationals have every reason to value a young, controllable arm like his.
But the Red Sox have the trade chips to make something happen. Whether it’s young position players, prospects, or a combination of both, Boston has the flexibility to put together a compelling offer.
And timing matters here. Gore’s value is high, but so is the demand.
Other teams will be calling, and if the Sox want to make a serious push, they’ll need to move quickly. This isn’t the time to play it safe-it’s the time to get bold.
The Bottom Line
Boston’s front office has already made a statement with the Gray and Oviedo moves, but the rotation still needs that one more piece to truly contend. MacKenzie Gore could be that piece.
He’s young, talented, affordable, and already proven he can handle the spotlight. Add him to this mix, and suddenly the Red Sox aren’t just patching holes-they’re building something dangerous.
If the opportunity’s there, this is the kind of move that could define the offseason.
