Red Sox Shopping Connor Wong, Fielding Calls on Relievers

Red Sox Trade Deadline Decisions: Who’s In, Who’s Out?

The Boston Red Sox are staring down another trade deadline, and honestly, it feels like they’re always stuck in this weird limbo—should they buy, sell, or just stand pat? No one in the front office has made a clear call yet, but the rumors are swirling, especially around a few key guys.

Let’s dig into who’s on the block, why they’re there, and what this all might mean for Boston’s shot at the playoffs.

Connor Wong: A Catcher Seeking Greener Pastures?

It’s not shocking to hear that Connor Wong’s name is floating around in trade talks. Boston’s catching situation keeps shifting, and Wong’s recent struggles haven’t helped his case.

He hasn’t homered since the 2024 season, which is rough for a guy expected to add some pop. His .375 slugging percentage isn’t terrible, but for a starting catcher, it’s just not enough—especially next to his .264 average.

Defensively, the numbers aren’t doing him any favors either. Baseball Savant points out issues with his “catching runs” and “framing,” which, frankly, aren’t what you want from your main guy behind the plate.

And then there’s that pesky broken pinkie from 2025. Is it still bugging him? Hard to say, but it’s got to be in the back of his mind.

With Mickey Gasper and Carlos Narvaez waiting in the wings, Boston has options. Wong isn’t a free agent until 2029, but with this much depth, it’s not hard to see why he’s available.

He could be a solid fit for a team desperate for catching depth or maybe just looking for a fresh face.

Bullpen Blitz: Chapman, Slaten, and Whitlock on the Radar

Boston’s bullpen has quietly been one of their strengths this year. Not surprisingly, other teams are sniffing around, hoping to pry loose a late-inning arm.

Aroldis Chapman, Justin Slaten, and Garrett Whitlock have all drawn interest. So far, though, Boston isn’t budging. They know what they’ve got, and it’s tough to give up reliable relievers when you’re trying to stay in the hunt.

Whitlock: The Injured Ace in Waiting

Garrett Whitlock is on the 15-day IL with left knee inflammation, which is a bummer. When he’s healthy, though, he’s been nasty—he’s holding a 1.11 WHIP and a 25-to-6 K/BB ratio in 19.2 innings.

Boston’s hoping he bounces back soon and slides right back into that critical bullpen role.

Chapman: Still Firing Fastballs

Aroldis Chapman’s hamstring has been an issue, but it hasn’t slowed him down much. He’s rocking a 0.46 ERA and a 0.91 WHIP, which is just wild.

That 33.8% strikeout rate over 19.2 innings? It shows he’s still got that overpowering stuff, even if he’s not the youngest guy out there.

Slaten: A Rising Star with Upside

Justin Slaten missed some time with a right oblique strain, but since coming back, he’s looked sharp. With a 3.27 ERA and 1.18 WHIP in 12 games, he’s making a case to stick around.

He’s young, controllable, and might have even more in the tank. Teams looking for bullpen help are definitely watching him.

Jarren Duran: Differing Valuations Complicate Deals

Jarren Duran’s name keeps popping up in trade rumors too. But here’s the thing—Boston and other teams just can’t agree on what he’s really worth.

That gap in valuation is making any deal tricky. If he does get moved, it’ll probably take some serious compromise on both sides.

Breslow’s Deadline Legacy: Will This Year Be Different?

All eyes are on Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow. This trade deadline feels like another big test of his stewardship.

His previous two trade deadline performances left a lot of folks underwhelmed. Naturally, that history leads to more scrutiny and anticipation.

Will Breslow finally pull the trigger on significant moves? The Red Sox’s trajectory for the rest of the season—and maybe even beyond—could hang in the balance.

The August 3rd deadline is coming up fast. Whatever happens in the next few days will help define Boston’s competitive standing.
 
Here is the source article for this story: Red Sox reportedly ‘shopping’ Connor Wong, receiving calls on relief pitchers