Red Sox Rumors

The Red Sox would like to see more consistent production from their bullpen, but they aren’t about to give good prospects up to acquire relievers, GM Theo Epstein told Alex Speier of WEEI.com. Red Sox relievers not named Daniel Bard have had ups and downs this year, so Epstein is open to adding arms.

“It’s no condemnation of our current bullpen, but to be realistic about it, you add a really good reliever it always makes our team better,” Epstein said.

The Red Sox thought they were adding a really good reliever in 2007 when they acquired Eric Gagne for Engel Beltre, Kason Gabbard and David Murphy. As any Red Sox fan will tell you, Gagne’s stint in Boston (6.75 ERA) was not a successful one. Last year, the Red Sox traded Chris Carter for Billy Wagner and even obtained a top pick in this year’s draft. The Red Sox may need help behind the plate, in the infield or in the outfield, but if they decide to prioritize relief help, don’t expect them to hand over highly-valued prospects.

GM Theo Epstein says the Red Sox will evaluate the players replacing Dustin Pedroia and Victor Martinez before deciding whether to pursue a trade for depth up the middle, according to Alex Speier of WEEI.com. Bill Hall, Eric Patterson, Jason Varitek and Gustavo Molina will get the chance to fill in while Pedroia and Martinez heal. 

If that quartet is as productive as outfielders Daniel Nava and Darnell McDonald, Epstein may not have to deal at all. The club may consider pursuing other players, but as Epstein points out, standout second basemen and catchers are hard to find.

“Those middle of the field guys who can really make an impact offensively, they’re the toughest ones to replace,” Epstein said.

Not only would it be difficult to trade for a productive catcher or middle infielder, it would be necessary to create roster space when Martinez and Pedroia return. That’s another consideration for Epstein, who says trades would have to make sense long-term and short-term.

“You don’t want to make a major trade that all of a sudden three or four weeks from now doesn’t fit,” Epstein said. 

Earlier today, Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports reported that the Red Sox and Cubs talked about a deal that would have sent Mike Fontenot to Boston. WEEI reported last week that the Red Sox have some interest in Adam Everett. The Red Sox appear to be considering options in case Hall and Patterson do not meet expectations, but Epstein says the current Red Sox will be given every opportunity to succeed.