The Boston Red Sox were probably right to trade Rafael Devers, but what they got in return for him proved to be a failed gamble. Kyle Harrison, one of the prospects acquired from the San Francisco Giants as part of the deal, is still in Triple A ball with Worcester. In most organizations that would be fine, but with the current Red Sox situation, if Harrison isn’t ready now, when will he?

Boston added Steven Matz and Dustin May at the deadline, solidifying some much needed help in the starting rotation. The fact that Cooper Criswell, a relief pitcher, is starting in place of an ailing rotation doesn’t make sense. Why not put faith in a player you traded for, then it says a lot about how you feel about them.

Red Sox may give up on Kyle Harrison before he ever has a chance to prove himself

Harrison isn’t having a horrible season in the minors, making 13 starts and winning 14 games so far. He’s got 67 strikeouts, a 1.57 WHIP and a 4.08 ERA. I’m not saying he’s ready to save this pitching staff in Boston, but what are the Red Sox waiting on. I know they are in contention for the postseason so relying on a rookie isn’t the best.

But if they didn’t think he could help them out this season, they should have went after either a more developed prospect or another arm to get a better return. The last thing they need is a player they acquired in a blockbuster deal to be a bust.

That’s where Harrison’s headed toward if the Red Sox don’t get some faith in him. Crag Breslow has a microscope on him. He said this team would be better without Devers. Not only did that mean the roster was fine without him, but also the players they got as part of the deal would elevate them as well. We’re still waiting to see what Harrison will be for the Red Sox.

If Boston is willing to throw a bullpen game after trading for a starter, it means they don’t believe Harrison will be the arm they need right now. And what’s going to change between this season and next?

The window to prove Harrison was worth it is shrinking. If they don’t give him a chance to see if he was worth getting in the Devers deal, it will be clear they’re admitting they made a mistake in trading for him.