Here's What Red Sox's Alex Verdugo Could Be Traded For According To Insider
The Boston Red Sox enter a franchise-altering offseason with many decisions to make, including who will run the operation.
When a new leader of baseball operations is appointed, he'll have to decide what to do with one of the more polarizing players in Boston, outfielder Alex Verdugo.
The 27-year-old is entering his last season under team control. The Red Sox had yet to begin extension talks as of a few weeks ago and Verdugo has had a few, albeit small, disciplinary issues with the team. That is a cocktail for an offseason trade.
What would a trade of Verdugo net? The Athletic's Jen McCaffrey gave her insight on the matter and mentioned who could bring in a bigger haul.
"Verdugo is certainly a trade candidate, and teams know they’re getting an average hitter and above-average defender, but one that might come with some disciplinary issues," McCaffrey wrote Thursday. "I still think Verdugo could be traded for a mid-level infielder or reliever, but I think (Jarren) Duran might garner a player with more years of control and upside."
Verdugo hit .264 with 55 extra-base hits including 13 home runs, 54 RBIs and a .745 OPS in 142 games. He also logged one out above average and nine defensive runs saved in the extremely difficult Fenway Park right field.
The excitable outfielder has not risen to the perennial All-Star level ceiling many expected him to have as a top prospect for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Still, a mid-level reliever sounds a little light. If that is his return, Boston should ride out his contract year and reevaluate at the trade deadline. If the Red Sox can get a second baseman of similar value, that makes a little more sense.
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