Red Sox Eye Trade Targets as Deadline Approaches

BOSTON, Mass. — As the 2025 Major League Baseball season unfolds, the Boston Red Sox are considering potential targets ahead of the trade deadline. While the team has a logjam in its position player lineup, the pitching staff raises concerns that could prompt action.

With Tanner Houck struggling early in the season and Lucas Giolito recovering from a hamstring injury, the Red Sox may look to bolster their rotation. Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara, a top starter expected to be available, presents an intriguing option. Despite currently facing challenges with a 6.56 ERA, Alcantara’s past success as the 2022 Cy Young Award winner keeps him on Boston’s radar.

On Thursday, Newsweek analyst Zach Pressnell suggested a potential trade package for Alcantara that includes center fielder Ceddanne Rafaela, shortstop prospect Franklin Arias, and right-handed pitcher Hunter Dobbins. “The Red Sox are the top team in the sweepstakes for Alcántara,” Pressnell stated. He added that Rafaela, who once looked like a bright future player, currently finds himself out of position with minor league standout Roman Anthony nearing his debut.

Rafaela, 24, signed a $50 million contract extension last year, but with the emergence of Anthony, his role may be diminishing. Dobbins has impressed early this season with two wins in two starts, projecting as a valuable mid-rotation starter. Arias showcases potential as a future Gold Glover at shortstop.

Despite the risks involved in trading multiple prospects for Alcantara, Boston has three months to assess his performance and decide on their next steps. Meanwhile, trade discussions continue around the organization.

The trade talks have escalated since the offseason and are expected to stay active until the July 31 deadline. New ace Garrett Crochet has proven impactful for Boston, leading analysts to speculate about further moves. FanSided writer Brian Burrows recently highlighted Double-A infielder Mikey Romero as a potential trade piece. Romero currently ranks as the number-12 prospect in the Red Sox system according to MLB Pipeline.

Romero, 21, had a rocky start to his career but showed significant promise last season with 16 home runs in 78 games. He has continued this prospect with strong performance so far in 2025, but competition in the infield may force the Red Sox to trade him while his value remains high.