Trade Deadline Report: Boston Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox appeared to be on their way to a turnaround after they rattled off 8 of 9 wins including a 14-1 drubbing of the Toronto Blue Jays. They have since followed that up with four straight losses and have once again drifted back into obscurity in the AL East. As the deadline approaches, the Red Sox appear to be headed in a seller status and the moves have already begun. Here is a rundown of what has happened already:

1. Designating AJ Pierzynski for assignment: The often criticized catcher was DFA’d by the Red Sox on July 9th. A sluggish offensive and defensive season saw him fall out of favor both on and off the field as many teammates complained about his lack of leadership and compassion, as well as an overall lack of interest. The move has since brought up the young and talented Christian Vazquez who since being called up has played in 9 games going 9 for 32 with 7 RBIs including three doubles. Pierzynski has since signed with the St. Louis Cardinals.
2. Trading Jake Peavy: The Red Sox pulled the trigger, trading the former Cy Young winner to the San Francisco Giants for two pitching prospects Edwin Escobar and Heath Hembree. Escobar will become another top prospect down in Triple-A Pawtucket pairing with others like Allen Webster and Anthony Ranaudo. Hembree is a relief pitcher, also in Pawtucket, but could be ready for the majors soon, especially if either Andrew Miller or Koji Uehara are dealt. The move opens up a spot in the rotation for what is likely to be Brandon Workman, but it looks like Webster could pitch the first game in Peavy’s spot due to their schedules in Pawtucket.

So what is next for the Red Sox? The big question that remains is if they will trade their ace Jon Lester. Others who could be traded are names like Miller, Uehara, John Lackey, Junichi Tazawa, Jonny Gomes, Stephen Drew or Mike Carp. They have plenty of young players with promise who could move in to replace them. They could also package some prospects and make a move for outfield help. The options are limitless for the Red Sox who are in a very unique position especially coming off a World Series. Only time will tell, but as the deadline inches closer, expect the Red Sox to do something. This team will not be the same by the conclusion of July 31st.