The Boston Red Sox are red-hot going into the second half of the season and hold a one-game lead for the second American League Wild Card spot.
Just when it seemed like the Red Sox were punting on this season, especially after trading star third baseman/designated hitter Rafael Devers, the team won its last 10 games going into the All-Star break.
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Boston is now in a position to be buyers at the trade deadline and they have the assets to acquire whatever talent they need going forward.
That need is clearly pitching. All-Star Garrett Crochet has pitched wonderfully in his first season with Boston, and Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito have been solid, but the Red Sox need a starter with poise for the postseason.
While the Atlanta Braves have stubbornly stated they won’t move players under contract for next season, they should consider trading left-hander Chris Sale.
A reunion between Sale and the Red Sox would not only have fans back on Craig Breslow’s side, but it would also bolster Boston’s chances of a playoff berth.
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The Braves don’t want to move on from Sale, but with the team plummeting further from playoff contention with every passing day, they could get a haul for the nine-time All-Star and reigning Cy Young winner.
FanSided’s Christopher Kline thinks Boston is well-equipped to make a move despite reports that the Braves will not move Sale.
“But the Red Sox are equipped with the prospect capital to make a compelling offer to Atlanta,” wrote Kline. “Boston probably won’t touch one of the big three of Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer or Kristian Campbell, but anyone else in that system is fair game. Sale is a beast, and the Red Sox are expected to operate aggressively with so much momentum on their side, especially after freeing up money with the Rafael Devers trade.”
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Even if the Red Sox can’t pry Sale away from Atlanta, look for the team to go out and get a starting pitching upgrade at the trade deadline.
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