Red Sox Star's Trade Market 'Still Strong' Despite Speculation; Is Deal Coming?

It sounds like Boston still could end up trading one of its stars

The Boston Red Sox have a tough decision to make.

Boston star closer Kenley Jansen has been in trade rumors over the last few weeks. He was impressive in his first season with the club in 2023, but is expensive and could be moved. 

Jansen was the club's lone All-Star in 2023 but is set to earn $16 million in 2024 and Boston is trying to find ways to cut salary. He certainly could help the club, but it sounds like Boston could end up getting a deal done. 

Spring Training officially is upon us, but a trade still could be in the works, according to The Athletic's Jen McCaffrey. 

"The Red Sox meanwhile have subtracted from the big-league team, but it's still possible they will make more moves as the spring progresses," McCaffrey said. "Free agents are still available and Jansen's trade market is still strong."  

The two biggest clubs that have popped up as options for Jansen are the Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies. Jansen spent the first 12 seasons of his career with the Dodgers and developed into one of the best relievers in baseball. 

Philadelphia had former Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel last season, but he signed with the Baltimore Orioles earlier in the offseason. Jansen could make sense for either club.

If the Red Sox were to trade Jansen, a deal certainly would open up the payroll a little bit. Maybe the Red Sox could then land one of the more expensive free agents still available. 

Boston completed a trade Saturday involving fellow reliever John Schreiber and it sounds like another deal could be on the way.

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