The Red Sox have just traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. This has all but confirmed the dismantling of short-lived aspirations for the 2025 Boston Red Sox. As soon as this trade took place on Sunday, the ownership had waved the white flag for this season. A commitment to the future is now set in stone as the Red Sox have pivoted to a new direction for this ball club. Unfortunately, it accounts for being a 'heavy seller' between now and July.
The next person that the Red Sox will most likely be taking calls for is closer Aroldis Chapman. The former two-time World Series champion is the probable next man out the door, possibly heading to another championship contender. But who would he be dealt for?
1. Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers have been trying to embrace an elite bullpen these past couple of years. The 'gritty tigs' already have a top-five pitching staff in baseball in 2025, but could be more than willing to deal for Chapman if the shoe fits.
2. Philadelphia Phillies
With a bullpen that's been struggling all season, the Phillies would need a quick fix. Given how Zack Wheeler has just confirmed that he'll retire in 2027 no matter what happens, the Phillies GM, Dave Dombrowski, may want to call his former team in Boston.
Jordan Romano has not worked out for them in the slightest, with an ERA just over 7 in just under 30 games. Chapman may be a headliner for Philadelphia within the next month or so.
3. Milwaukee Brewers
The Milwaukee Brewers are trying to contend for the division, but they need some more bullpen help. So far, their staff is middling with the league, and that's not Milwaukee's milieu of today. They're going to enforce an elite bullpen no matter the situation.
The Brew Crew already has Trevor Megill as their closer, but Chapman can be an amazing setup man like he was in Texas in 2022. His addition would ultimately help Milwaukee's chances of coming back and winning the division over the Chicago Cubs by the end of the season.