Jeff Passan of ESPN has listed 13 teams with records over .500 who are in the playoff mix and who could make trades. He listed Los Angeles Angels infielder Luis Rengifo as a legit trade target for the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox have been playing their best baseball of the season over the last two weeks. With the MLB trade deadline five weeks away, it’s unclear if the Red Sox will buy or sell.
“To be clear, the Red Sox are not yet committed to adding. They’ve simply played themselves into a situation where not doing so would be a bad look for the organization that has too many in recent years. Rengifo, a 27-year-old who doesn’t reach free agency until after the 2025 season, would bring versatility– he has played second base and shortstop, both areas of need for the Red Sox– in addition to a dangerous bat. It would be the steady sort of move that improves them now and gives them options going forward.
“That said: If Boston continues this run and goes into July in full command of a playoff spot, the Red Sox absolutely should be placing a call to the Mets to gauge the possibility of getting [Pete] Alonso. Even though first baseman Trison Casas will likely return in early July, the Red Sox have gotten a sub-.300 weight on-base percentage from the DH position. Which, regardless of the size of Masataka Yoshida‘s contract, is worth addressing via upgrades like the one Alonso would provide.”
Luis Rengifo Ideal Trade Acquisition for Red Sox
The most impactful shortstop has been David Hamilton. He’s hitting .282/.333/.449 which has led to his .782 OPS in 41 games this season. While Hamilton has earned playing time, the Red Sox should find an everyday option at shortstop. Doing so will allow Hamilton to be used as an in-depth piece.
.@JeffPassan also listed Luis Rengifo as the best fit on the trade market for the Red Sox.
Rengifo spent most of him time at 3B/2B this season because of Neto, but had some run at SS in 2023.
Makes it clear the Red Sox haven’t committed to buying.
61 Games -… pic.twitter.com/9nHSZfOfA7
— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) June 25, 2024
Rengifo, a switch-hitter, is having an impressive season offensively. He’s hitting a robust .311/.360/.320 with a .780 OPS. His defensive skills aren’t like his offensive talent, but acquiring Rengifo wouldn’t cost the Red Sox much. He is an appealing option to bolster their lineup without significantly impacting their long-term plans. The Angels will certainly be sellers at the deadline.
Main Photo: © David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
