The Boston Red Sox concluded the trade deadline without securing the key addition of Minnesota Twins All-Star pitcher Joe Ryan, leaving their efforts to bolster the rotation largely unfulfilled. Despite rumors of an aggressive push for Ryan, the team ended up acquiring only two pitching rentals, Steven Matz and Dustin May, by the deadline on Thursday.
Although May and Matz may provide some depth, the minimal activity by Boston starkly contrasts with the more decisive deadline deals made by their competitors. Fans watched anxiously as reports of a late bid to acquire Dustin May surfaced, raising expectations for a significant upgrade in Boston’s pitching staff.
Late Rumors and Misreports Highlight Frustrations
Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported that the Red Sox were making a final effort for right-hander Dustin May, fueling hopes that Boston might secure a top trade deadline prize. However, as the 6 p.m. ET deadline passed, it became clear that no agreement had been reached, despite premature social media posts from FOX Sports MLB and Yahoo Sports incorrectly announcing a deal.
MassLive’s Chris Cotillo later revealed that the Red Sox’s offer for Joe Ryan was far below what the Twins demanded. Cotillo quoted a source saying, “Not even close,” underscoring how far apart the teams remained in trade negotiations.
Mixed Reactions to the Failed Pursuit
While some, like Jared Carrabis of Underdog Fantasy, suggested the negotiations
“felt like that thing was on the five-yard line,”
the ultimate reality was a missed opportunity with no trade executed. The Red Sox now face the remainder of the season grappling with a patchwork rotation.
With uncertainty surrounding starting pitching beyond their top three arms, Boston will have to rely heavily on Walker Buehler and less proven minor leaguers Kyle Harrison and Richard Fitts. Though acquiring Dustin May would have improved that situation, the team’s inability to land Ryan leaves little reason for optimism.
Implications and Outlook Moving Forward
The failure to acquire Joe Ryan at the deadline leaves Boston’s pitching staff in a precarious position as they chase postseason goals. While the possibility exists for renewed talks during the offseason, Thursday’s outcome is a stark reminder of how crucial roster moves can influence a team’s trajectory.
Coming away from the deadline with minimal additions, the Red Sox missed a chance to significantly strengthen their rotation, leading to growing unease among fans and analysts alike.