The Boston Red Sox have expressed considerable interest in improving their roster before the trade deadline, but the most recent updates suggest the team might hesitate to pursue major trades. This cautious approach emerges despite the organization’s public commitment to making significant moves, raising questions about their willingness to invest heavily at this critical juncture.
According to ESPN insider Jeff Passan, the Red Sox currently appear reluctant to engage in large-scale deadline deals. This restraint is partly due to the team‘s emphasis on operating with efficiency, particularly in a market where acquiring top talent demands a steep cost. Boston’s chief baseball officer, Craig Breslow, has indicated the club aims to add pieces following the trade of Rafael Devers, yet the current environment might discourage bold spending.
“At this moment, the Red Sox are not inclined to engage in any large-scale deadline moves,”
—Jeff Passan, ESPN Insider
“Holding now would speak to the Red Sox’s comfort with their current roster and the exceptional price to bolster it.”
—Jeff Passan, ESPN Insider
Joe Ryan Remains a Target, but Price Tag Is Daunting
Among the pitchers Boston covets, Minnesota Twins’ Joe Ryan stands out as a highly desirable addition, projected to bolster their starting rotation alongside Garrett Crochet. Ryan, a first-time All-Star under team control through 2027, represents a valuable long-term asset. Nonetheless, the latest reports warn that securing Ryan could demand a trade haul so costly that it may deter the Red Sox from pursuing him aggressively.
Passan highlights that while Joe Ryan is arguably the best pitcher available this deadline, the Minnesota Twins have set a high asking price, comparable to what other teams must give up for closer relievers like Jhoan Duran or Griffin Jax—namely, two top-100 prospects or better. Such a steep price could make the team less willing to engage in detailed negotiations for a premier starter, particularly given Boston’s current cautious mindset.
“Teams adore Joe Ryan, and while he is perhaps the best arm available of any in the mix at the deadline, teams look at what the Twins are asking for to acquire (relievers Jhoan) Duran or (Griffin) Jax — at least two top-100-caliber prospects — and aren’t inclined to spend a whole lot of time workshopping deals for a top-10 starter this season with two more years of club control,”
—Jeff Passan, ESPN Insider
“Maybe (the Red Sox) pony up to get Ryan, seeing it the same way they did in the four-prospect haul it took to land Crochet, but for now, at least, they simply haven’t been willing to go there.”
—Jeff Passan, ESPN Insider
Alternatives and the Stakes for Boston
If the Red Sox ultimately decide against committing the premium price for Joe Ryan, the front office may still explore other pitching options such as the Kansas City Royals’ Kris Bubic or Washington Nationals’ MacKenzie Gore. However, many available starters this season are short-term rentals rather than long-term solutions.
Boston faces a crucial moment as they attempt to end a three-year playoff drought. The potential consequences of a weak deadline showing are significant for the club’s fans, who expect a more substantial push to secure postseason contention. The balance between safeguarding prospects and adding impactful talent will likely define the Red Sox’s final moves before the trade window closes.
With evident hesitation about overpaying, the Red Sox’s next steps could indicate whether they prioritize immediate success or gradual roster building amid the challenging deadline market.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Joe Ryan healthy?
A. Ryan couldn’t play for the last two months of the 2024 season because his throwing shoulder was strained. Now, in Fort Myers, he seems fit and in good shape. His consistent performance on the field suggests he’s getting back to his old self, which is good news for the Twins.
Q. Is Joe Ryan an ace?
A. On Sunday afternoon, Joe Ryan, the top pitcher for the Minnesota Twins, struck out 11 batters over seven innings. The Twins won against the Colorado Rockies with a score of 7-1. Ryan, who is gaining attention for possible trades, now holds a 10-4 record with a 2.63 ERA. Although the Twins seem unlikely to trade him, other teams are expected to inquire about his availability.
Q. How did the twins get Joe Ryan?
A. Minnesota traded for him from Tampa Bay, exchanging him for Nelson Cruz. They helped him become an All-Star pitcher. His ERA is 2.72, with a 3.20 FIP. This year, he has 121 strikeouts and 23 walks over 109 1/3 innings, which are career bests.