Another player involved in the Mookie Betts trade could leave Boston. According to Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe , the team will listen to trade proposals from other clubs for outfielder Alex Vertugo as a way to address other needs without giving up its top prospect.
If Verdugo is traded, that would leave Connor Wong as the Red Sox’ only remaining player from the Mookie Betts trade three years ago. This week, Columbian Jeter Downs was recalled on waivers by the Nationals after Boston designated him for assignment.
Brandon Nimmo, Andrew Benintendi, Cody Bellinger, Michael Brantley, Michael Conforto, Joey Gallo, Joc Pederson and Kevin Kiermaier signed.
Verdugo hasn’t flashed much power and hasn’t played great defense the last two years (-9 above average), but he’s hitting .286/.341/.431 with a 107 OPS+, including a .294/.352. /.460 against right-handed pitchers. The 26-year-old Ranger is under contract until the end of 2024.
The Red Sox need to improve their catching and starting pitching — and see how they cover shortstop after Xander Bogaerts’ departure.