Boston Red Sox Rumors: 3 starting pitchers to target via trade
Boston Red Sox: A return of E-Rod?
In his second season with the Detroit Tigers, Eduardo Rodriguez was off to a start reminiscent of his later years with the Boston Red Sox. Rodriguez (4-4) posted a 2.13 ERA with 67 strikeouts before an injury to his index finger sidelined him for most of June.
Rodriguez recently threw a batting practice session and could be back to game-action very soon.
Adding a lefty would be beneficial for the Red Sox, especially with Sale’s timetable uncertain. Paxton is performing well as the lone lefty starter but there might be concern as he was pulled early from Saturday’s start with knee soreness.
Rodriguez enjoyed quite the success with Boston from 2015-2021. He picked up 64 wins with nearly 900 strikeouts during his time with the Red Sox. Tossing aside the 2020 season, which Rodriguez missed due to COVID-19 related myocarditis, Rodriguez finished strong with the Red Sox.
Related Story. Boston Red Sox 2019: Eduardo Rodriguez delivers post All-Star break hope. light
In 88 starts over his last three season with Boston, Rodriguez went 45-19 with 544 strikeouts. This included a stellar 2019, which he received Cy Young Award consideration.
This option might be considered a longshot, considering Rodriguez is the ace of the Tigers’ staff. Plus, there is the contract he signed prior to the 2022 season (Five years, 77 million) and a Detroit team hanging around the A.L. Central lead (5.5 games back) despite being 10 games under .500.
Still, I’d welcome back Rodriguez in a flash, considering the Red Sox should have kept him to begin with. If Boston is unable to swing a trade for a pitcher from the A.L. Central, they could always turn to the National League for help.