As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Boston Red Sox are focusing on strengthening their starting rotation, with the Seth Lugo trade deadline target emerging as a key option. National baseball writer Julian McWilliams highlighted the urgent need for Boston to acquire starting pitching during his discussion on NESN’s 310 To Left podcast.
I think they’ve got to go out and get starting pitching,
McWilliams said during his appearance on NESN’s 310 To Left podcast with Jahmai Webster.
The problem is, I think everybody wants to get starting pitching and it’s going to come at a cost. How far do the Red Sox want to dig in to get that starting pitcher?
—Julian McWilliams, CBS Baseball Writer
Potential Targets: Insights into Lugo and Keller
Among the candidates, Kansas City Royals’ Seth Lugo and Pittsburgh Pirates’ Mitch Keller stand out as attractive options for Boston, each offering distinct benefits. Lugo, 35, is in his second year with Kansas City after signing a lucrative three-year, $45 million contract in late 2023. His 2025 campaign features a solid 6–5 record, a 2.67 ERA, and notable postseason experience, having finished second in American League Cy Young voting the previous year.
Despite his strong performance, Lugo’s age and $15 million salary for the 2026 season might raise concerns for teams looking for short-term reinforcements. Moreover, with the Royals still 4½ games behind in the wild-card race, they could be reluctant to trade him.
On the other hand, 29-year-old Mitch Keller represents a longer-term investment. Keller is under team control through 2028 thanks to a five-year, $77 million extension signed in February. Though his current 3–10 record this season does not reflect it, he maintains a respectable 3.48 ERA and averages seven strikeouts per nine innings. Keller carries potential as a frontline starter despite lacking playoff experience, with his salary expected to rise annually, peaking at $20.4 million in 2028.
Additional Pitching Options and Red Sox Strategy
Beyond Lugo and Keller, the Red Sox have been linked to other arms such as Arizona Diamondbacks’ Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, as well as veteran pitcher Charlie Morton from Baltimore. These names underscore Boston’s broad interest in reinforcing its rotation for a postseason run.
According to McWilliams, despite anticipated steep costs for securing veteran starting pitchers, acquiring bolstered pitching remains essential for the Red Sox to remain competitive in the final stretch of the regular season. With several potential trade targets circulating, Boston’s ultimate approach will be a critical storyline to watch as the deadline nears.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How fast does Seth Lugo pitch?
A. Half of the time, he pitches within the strike zone. This applies to all his Changeups. Typically, his pitch speed is 86.4 MPH, reaching up to 89.9 MPH.