The New York Mets and Boston Red Sox initially appeared to be rivals pursuing the same free agents this offseason. However, three key transactions have transformed them into potential trading partners with complementary needs.
The Three Pivotal Moves:
Boston’s acquisition of Willson Contreras – The Red Sox obtained the versatile player from St. Louis to address their first base vacancy after both teams passed on Pete Alonso’s contract demands.
Boston’s signing of Ranger Suarez – After missing out on Alex Bregman, the Red Sox committed significant money to the left-hander, while the Mets instead traded for Freddy Peralta.
New York’s signing of Bo Bichette – This was the game-changer. The Mets secured the infielder away from Boston after losing Kyle Tucker, creating positional depth for New York while leaving Boston still needing help at the infield corners.
Potential Trade Scenarios:
Now the teams have mismatched rosters that could facilitate deals. Boston needs infield help and could target Brett Baty from the Mets, who can play multiple positions. Meanwhile, the Red Sox have surplus outfielders like Jarren Duran who might interest New York.
Another possibility involves starting pitcher Brayan Bello. The young, affordable Red Sox hurler could appeal to the Mets if they’re looking to reduce payroll by moving Sean Manaea or Kodai Senga.
Other variations exist, including swaps involving Mark Vientos or prospect-based deals, though some are more speculative than others.
The bottom line: three offseason transactions completely flipped the dynamic between these franchises from competitors to compatible trading partners.
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