Red Sox Fan-Favorite Outfielder Surprisingly Placed On Trade Block
The Boston Red Sox are fast approaching Tuesday's Major League Baseball Trade Deadline and reportedly are considering a notable roster shakeup.
Many assumed that the only players in jeopardy of being traded were impending free agents and prospects. Apparently, one more player has been added to the list, and it's a big name.
"The Red Sox have expressed to other clubs that they’re willing to listen to offers for outfielder Alex Verdugo ahead of Tuesday’s trade deadline, multiple sources told MassLive," Chris Cotillo and Sean McAdam published Sunday. "A source with another American League team confirmed the Sox inquired as to whether Verdugo would be of interest to them."
It's one thing to listen to offers on a player, that would not sound alarms. However, according to this report, Verdugo is being shopped around. The Red Sox are actively gauging other teams' interest in their core player.
Verdugo is hitting .272 with 38 extra-base hits, seven home runs, 39 RBIs and a .769 OPS (105 OPS+) in 94 games this season. He also ranks in the 94th percentile for arm strength, 84th percentile for outfielder jump and 62nd percentile in outs above average -- in the hardest right field to play in the big leagues.
There are not many above-average offensive and defensive players floating around, especially at only 27 years old. Throw in his consistent ability to hit in the clutch and the fact that he appears to be the perfect fit for the city and clubhouse. That typically results in a second contract as a core player to build around.
Verdugo is under contract through 2024 and the team has not engaged in any negotiations to extend him.
While his trade market likely is high and the return could be notable, it seems hard to believe that the Red Sox could benefit from trading away Verdugo. That does not appear to be a wise move for the present or future of the organization.
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