The Boston Red Sox, despite trading away their best player in Rafael Devers about a month ago, are still in the thick of things in the American League playoff picture. The trade deadline is about three weeks away, and Boston has about fifteen games to decide whether or not it will be buyers or sellers. Boston is 48-45 and playing a lot better as of late; however, first base continues to be a massive hole on the infield from an offensive standpoint.
They could look to make a deal with the Washington Nationals that would drastically improve the position.
After Triston Casas was lost for the season, the Red Sox have been lost in trying to find a replacement. Nate Eaton has just been optioned, and Abraham Toro has also gotten reps at first base, but neither of those guys nor Romy Gonzalez is a real answer.
Trade Idea Sends Nathaniel Lowe to Boston
In this recent trade proposal, the Boston Red Sox would acquire first baseman Nathaniel Lowe in a deal with the Washington Nationals. Lowe might be the best option on the market and is controllable through 2026. The consensus is that the Nationals are likely to be sellers at this year’s deadline, after firing both their Manager and GM, and not contending once again.
In a recent article by Bleacher Report, writer Kerry Miller explains the value Lowe has and the Nationals’ potential strategy at this year’s trade deadline with their young core.
Lowe plays a solid defensive first base (Gold Glove in 2023) and has shown the ability to hit for some power. His best offensive season came in 2022 when he hit 27 home runs, drove in 76 runs, and had an OPS of .851 with the Texas Rangers.
This season, Lowe has 13 home runs in 91 games played and has 58 RBIs. Lowe has a player option for 2026 and will have an arbitration hearing before the season.
Why This Potential Deal Helps Boston
Well, it feels pretty obvious that this deal helps the Boston Red Sox tremendously at a position they have not seen good production from. The Red Sox have a loaded outfield, so this deal may cost them one of those outfielders or one of their higher-ranked prospects. However, it will be worth it if Boston decides to be buyers and truly go all-in for the playoffs. Aside from starting pitching, Boston’s biggest need is a first baseman. They have fully embraced the youth movement among their roster, but adding a strong veteran presence like Lowe, who has a World Series under his belt with the Texas Rangers. Lowe signed a one-year deal with Washington this offseason.
As MLB’s trade deadline looms, Boston is one of the most intriguing teams in baseball because nobody is quite sure of their plans. They are in the thick of it in the Wild Card race, and could certainly use a couple of positive additions for their September push to the playoffs. A low-cost deal for a player who is solid, such as Lowe, makes perfect sense for both parties.
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