The Boston Red Sox are targeting a return of Nathan Eovaldi to strengthen their starting rotation, aiming to leverage his postseason experience and exceptional performance in 2025. The Nathan Eovaldi Red Sox trade is seen as a strategic move to add a controllable and impactful pitcher to ignite a playoff push as the team looks beyond the All-Star break.
Why Nathan Eovaldi Is a Prime Target for Boston
Boston’s search for reliable starting pitching focuses on players with contract control and proven effectiveness. Nathan Eovaldi stands out due to his history with the Red Sox, playoff pedigree, and remarkable 2025 form with the Texas Rangers. Originally acquired midseason in 2018, Eovaldi quickly became a rotation cornerstone, known for deep outings and clutch performances. Notably, his 12-inning relief in Game 4 of the 2018 World Series remains a legendary moment in Red Sox history.
Now 35, Eovaldi is not just a nostalgic figure; his numbers this year underscore a resurgence, highlighted by a 1.58 ERA over 91 innings and a 0.85 WHIP. His strikeout-to-walk ratio of 94 to 14 punctuates his command and efficiency, positioning him as one of the league’s best pitchers this season.
Attributes Eovaldi Adds to Boston’s Rotation
Two-time World Series champion (2018 with Boston, 2023 with Texas), Nathan Eovaldi offers more than exceptional stats—he brings a wealth of postseason experience and leadership. Currently signed through 2027 on a three-year, $75 million deal, he provides long-term cost certainty compared to short-term trade rentals.
Eovaldi’s role would be that of a reliable innings eater who stabilizes a staff troubled by inconsistency and heavy workload. His veteran presence can guide Boston’s younger pitchers, improving performance and composure under pressure.
Per @JeffPassan, the Rangers are gifting Nathan Eovaldi the $100,000 All-Star bonus despite not being named to the team
Evo has been phenomenal for Texas in ‘25 posting a MLB best 1.58 ERA and 0.85 WHIP, trailing only the reigning Cy Young Tarik Skubal
— Rangers Nation ⚾️ (@rangers__nation) July 16, 2025
How Eovaldi Fits Boston’s Pitching Staff and Style
The current Red Sox rotation relies heavily on young arms including Brayan Bello, Garrett Whitlock, and Kutter Crawford, but lacks an experienced anchor to lead and stabilize the group. Eovaldi’s proven durability and ability to manage a full workload bring reliability that the Sox rotation currently misses.
- Dependability: Despite past injuries, he has averaged 30-plus starts in several seasons, highlighting his stamina.
- Mechanical Adaptability: Known for his command and ability to induce weak contact, he adjusts well to pitching challenges.
- Veteran Leadership: His postseason experience offers a vital mentorship role for Boston’s younger pitchers.
Manager Alex Cora could utilize Eovaldi’s experience in critical moments, whether as a steady Thursday starter or a flexible October option. His presence should help ease the pressure on a youthful rotation navigating a playoff race.
Potential Costs and Trade Considerations for Boston
The Texas Rangers, currently positioned at 48–49, might be willing to negotiate, though they are not firmly in sell mode. Payroll management and performance trajectory could motivate a deal, especially if the asking price doesn’t require Boston to trade top-tier prospects. The Red Sox’s robust farm system, particularly at mid- and lower levels, gives them the ability to offer a package centered on upper-minors pitching prospects who carry velocity and growth potential.
I feel like not enough people are talking about how Nathan Eovaldi has a 1.58 ERA and 0.85 WHIP in 16 starts this season…
— Eric Cross (@EricCrossMLB) July 14, 2025
Risks and Challenges in Pursuing Eovaldi
- Health Concerns: Eovaldi struggled with back and shoulder inflammation in 2022, but his strong performance so far in 2025 suggests his mechanics and conditioning remain intact.
- Salary Impact: With an annual salary around $25 million, the contract is substantial but manageable for Boston’s payroll flexibility.
- Competition from Other Teams: Other playoff contenders may enter the bidding war, potentially increasing Boston’s cost or prompting the Sox to evaluate alternatives such as Joe Ryan.
Despite these factors, the acquisition represents a strategic move focused on instant and sustained rotation improvement by adding innings, postseason credibility, and consistent performance to a staff that has struggled to find stability.
Summary of Trade Prospects and Expected Impact
- Nathan Eovaldi (RHP, Texas Rangers): Dominating 2025 season with a 1.58 ERA, 0.85 WHIP, and 94 strikeouts over 91 innings; under contract through 2027 on a $75 million deal.
- Role in Boston: Expected to serve as a top-three starter, providing innings and veteran playoff experience.
- Trade Proposal: Likely centered on upper-minor pitching prospects complemented by secondary assets.
- Potential Benefits: Immediate rotation upgrade, postseason reliability, and leadership for young pitchers.
- Concerns: Age-related health risks and significant salary commitments.
The Nathan Eovaldi Red Sox trade could mark a pivotal step in Boston’s quest to reclaim AL East supremacy and compete deep into October. His familiarity with the organization, coupled with recent elite performance, makes this a plausible and high-reward option as the Red Sox prepare for their next playoff run.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How many Tommy John surgeries has Nathan Eovaldi had?
A. Over his 13 seasons, he’s only started 30 games in two of them. He’s also dealt with serious injuries like two Tommy John surgeries and several shoulder problems.
Q. How many times has Nathan Eovaldi had Tommy John surgery?
A. A few days afterwards, the Yankees shared that Eovaldi had his second Tommy John surgery.