The Red Sox already made a pair of moves ahead of the MLB trade deadline, but it sounds like Boston still is looking for ways to improve its roster.
Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden published a deadline primer to The Athletic on Sunday, and it contained a series of Red Sox nuggets. Bowden indicated Craig Breslow and company were looking into the possibility of big-game hunting, as the ex-exec linked the Red Sox to Oakland Athletics slugger Brent Rooker and lights-out Miami Marlins relief pitcher Tanner Scott.
Bowden also claimed Boston could make a pre-deadline transaction that would come with less fanfare. It reportedly is “possible” the Marlins trade Josh Bell to the Red Sox, who might have to compete with the Seattle Mariners and the Pittsburgh Pirates if they want to acquire the 2019 All-Star.
The Bell rumor from Bowden was floated before FanSided’s Robert Murray reported Miami planned to put the 31-year-old on waivers. Of course, such a move wouldn’t eliminate the possibility of a trade. The Los Angeles Dodgers placed James Paxton on waivers last week before they dealt the veteran left-hander to the Red Sox on Friday. The Marlins seemingly are checking to see if they can get a club to bite on Bell, who’s picking up steam at the plate, and they can simply put him back on the roster if a trade isn’t found.
It’s unclear how interested the Red Sox might be in Bell. The addition of Danny Jansen gave Boston more roster flexibility and Triston Casas is slated to begin a rehab assignment soon. The Red Sox might have other positions prioritized, including relief pitching and middle infield.
Boston and other playoff hopefuls will have until 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday to make trades.
