The Red Sox could use some starting pitching help, and an old friend has become available.
The Dodgers, who could also use a boost in their rotation due to a slew of injuries, made a surprising move Monday when they designated James Paxton for assignment. But Los Angeles’ loss could be Boston’s gain, as Craig Breslow and company reportedly will look into the possibility of reuniting with Paxton.
“According to sources, there is a strong likelihood the Red Sox get in the mix for James Paxton, who was designated for assignment by the Dodgers Monday,” WEEI’s Rob Bradford wrote in a column published Monday. “But there will be competition for Paxton’s services considering he represents a piece of the puzzle more than a few contending teams are thirsty for — an inning-eating veteran starter who can help a club get to the finish line.”
Paxton owned an 8-2 record with a 4.43 ERA over 18 starts (89 1/3 innings) before he was DFA’d by the Dodgers. It seemingly was a roster management issue more than anything for LA, as the club is expected to activate both Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw off of the injured list this week.
The veteran southpaw joined the Dodgers after spending the 2023 season in Boston, where he compiled a 7-5 record and 4.50 ERA over 19 starts (96 innings). Not only could the Red Sox use a workhorse starter, but a left-hander also would be a welcomed addition to a rotation that currently only features righties.
As Bradford mentioned, Paxton is poised to command a robust market now that he’s looking for a new gig. But the Red Sox, who will be in a dogfight for a playoff spot the rest of the way, should make a concerted effort to bring in Paxton, especially since they won’t have to give up assets in return.
