The Boston Red Sox were reportedly close to acquiring Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan before the MLB trade deadline, though conflicting reports made the true status of talks unclear. According to ESPN insider Jeff Passan, Boston showed genuine interest in Ryan but faced obstacles as the deadline approached.

Passan explained that the Red Sox were prepared to offer several high-level prospects to secure Ryan’s services. However, this willingness only became apparent late in the process. By then, the Twins were engaged in numerous other conversations about reshaping their roster, which diminished their urgency to trade Ryan.

Trade Deadline Moves and Boston’s Strategy

While Boston did not complete a deal for Joe Ryan, they remained active in acquiring new talent at the deadline. The Red Sox sent prospects James Tibbs III and Zach Ehrhard to the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for pitcher Dustin May. Additionally, they traded prospect Blaze Jordan to the St. Louis Cardinals to obtain pitcher Steven Matz. These moves aimed to bolster the pitching staff despite missing out on Ryan.

Impact and Future Possibilities for the Red Sox

Following the trade deadline, the Red Sox overcame criticism as they swept the Houston Astros, narrowing the gap to just three games behind the Toronto Blue Jays in the American League East standings. Looking ahead, Joe Ryan, who still has two years remaining on his contract, could become a key offseason target if the Twins decide to make him available again, potentially reopening negotiations.

The Red Sox were willing to part with a number of high-end prospects to land right-hander Joe Ryan from the Minnesota Twins. But that wasn’t expressed until the deadline was nearing, and the Twins were so deep in other talks to disassemble their roster, the prospect of moving Ryan had lost appeal.

—Jeff Passan, ESPN Insider