It’s August, and the Boston Red Sox are in desperate need of pitching help. Unfortunately, the window to address this issue may have already closed.
Red Sox fans are no strangers to this scenario, having witnessed the team falter in the final stretch of both the 2022 and 2023 seasons after being above .500 at the trade deadline. With many of the starting pitchers reaching career-high innings and the bullpen struggling, it seems the same pattern is emerging once again.
The situation looks bleak as the Red Sox are about to face a challenging 10-game stretch against three playoff contenders, starting Thursday, with a weakened pitching staff. Without a significant turnaround, Boston will need to rely on a high-scoring offense to keep pace with their tough opponents.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope that a solution might come through the waiver wire.
FanSided’s Zachary Presnell has identified the Red Sox as a potential landing spot for San Francisco Giants pitcher Blake Snell, a two-time Cy Young winner, if he becomes available through waivers as a cost-cutting move.
“Boston could greatly benefit from adding another starter,” Presnell noted. “If Snell is put on waivers, there’s no reason Boston shouldn’t consider taking on his contract and bringing him in for the remainder of the season. The Red Sox need to make a strong push this year.”
Snell, 31, has been exceptional since the All-Star break, posting a 0.99 ERA, a .097 opponents’ batting average, and 60 strikeouts in 45 1/3 innings over his last seven starts. He also pitched a no-hitter against the Cincinnati Reds.
From a performance standpoint, Snell would be an excellent fit for the Red Sox. However, the financial implications could be a stumbling block.
Red Sox ownership has been hesitant to increase payroll in recent seasons, and the team’s current tax payroll is around $223.9 million, according to Spotrac. Adding Snell would mean an additional $6 million in payroll, which could be a significant hurdle.
While the likelihood of this scenario playing out might be slim and discussions with the front office would be crucial if Snell were to become available, the prospect of acquiring him would certainly be exciting for the Red Sox.
