The Boston Red Sox chose not to acquire pitchers Joe Ryan or Merrill Kelly at the July 31 trade deadline, a choice that is now under increasing scrutiny as the team holds the top wildcard position in the American League. Positioned just three games behind the AL East leaders, the implications of those trade deadline decisions are becoming more significant with each passing game.
Recent Strong Performance Highlights Red Sox’s Pitching Depth
Over the recent weekend series at Fenway Park, the Red Sox swept the Houston Astros, elevating themselves above the New York Yankees in the wildcard race. Lucas Giolito delivered an impressive performance, pitching eight innings and improving his record to 8-2 with a 3.57 ERA this season. His consistency is reflected in an even stronger 2.03 ERA over his last 11 starts, showcasing his role as a key starter for Boston. The Red Sox have maintained a 3.15 ERA since the All-Star break and have achieved a 14-2 home record in their last 16 games. Against Houston in their only series after the trade deadline, Boston posted a notably low 1.61 ERA.
Key Starters and Matchups Against Houston Demonstrate Team Strength
The sweep came despite the absence of Brayan Bello and Garrett Crochet, who are generally regarded as the team’s top starting pitchers. The Red Sox turned to Cooper Criswell, Walker Buehler, and Lucas Giolito to take the mound against Houston’s rotation, which included Hunter Brown, Framber Valdez, and Colton Gordon. Although Houston entered the series with strong pitching options, Boston’s starters outperformed expectations, particularly in the game against Valdez, where the Red Sox scored six runs amid a breakdown in Houston’s defense.
Manager Alex Cora Praises Team’s Defensive and Offensive Execution
Following the series, manager Alex Cora emphasized the importance of the team’s defensive efforts and timely hitting. He stated,
“We’ve been on the other side of those games: not playing defense, not holding runners, not doing a good job,”
and added,
“Today we took advantage of certain things, put the ball in play when we needed to. … All the things you work on in spring training showed up today. I love when they hit homers and all that, but it tells me that we’re in a good place right now.”
—Alex Cora, Boston Red Sox Manager
Strong Recent Run Suggests Trade Deadline Decisions May Be Justified
Since June 30, the Red Sox have posted a 21-7 record, a strong pace that, if maintained through the rest of the regular season and playoffs, would validate their choice to forgo adding Ryan, Kelly, or other potential acquisitions. However, this perspective hinges largely on the team’s ability to sustain its current level of performance, especially within the starting rotation. As of now, Boston’s pitching staff has held steady, but the margin for error is slim given the competitive chase behind them.
Trade Deadline Activity by Rival Teams Adds Pressure
The recent inactivity by the Red Sox contrasts with the moves made by contending teams such as the New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, and Texas Rangers, all closely trailing Boston in the playoff hunt. These teams have been active at the trade deadline in efforts to bolster their rosters, particularly their pitching staffs. Should Boston falter, particularly if the starting pitching struggles, the decision to pass on Joe Ryan and others will likely face increased criticism when reflecting on the trade deadline.
Implications for the Team’s Playoff Prospects
Ultimately, the evaluation of the Red Sox’s Joe Ryan trade deadline decisions will depend on how the team performs in the crucial final stretch. Maintaining strong pitching and capitalizing on their current momentum are essential. If the Red Sox can continue their recent winning ways, the choice to rely on existing pitchers rather than pursuing trade deadline additions will likely be seen as a calculated and successful strategy. However, any decline in starting pitching effectiveness could lead to second-guessing as rival teams continue to challenge Boston’s postseason positioning.