3 trades the Red Sox should make
From worst to first, and back again. The Boston Red Sox are hoping to pull off the rare turnaround for a second time this decade, and their recent foray into free agency suggests they're serious about it.
Hanley Ramirez and Pablo Sandoval figure to be just the tip of the iceberg - Boston is rumored to be pursuing a reunion with left-hander Jon Lester, among other potential targets. Red Sox brass admitted its desire to acquire front-line starting pitching this winter, and there's no reason to think Boston won't.
But the influx of two more position players - particularly Ramirez, who is expected to play left field next year - gives general manager Ben Cherington avenues other than free agency to secure arms.
Here are three trade proposals Boston should consider this offseason:
OF Yoenis Cespedes for San Diego Padres RHP Ian Kennedy
Why Boston would do it
Swapping impending free agents comes down to need, and the Red Sox desperately need pitching. Kennedy has had trouble shaking his reputation as a pitcher susceptible to the long ball, but his fastball velocity and fly-ball rates improved considerably last season. The right-hander's ability to soak up innings - he's averaged 201 innings a year since 2010 - would be a nice compliment to whichever front-line arm the Red Sox (likely) sign this offseason.
Why San Diego would do it
The Padres just missed out on a pair of free-agent bats this offseason and are in dire need of offense. Judging by the Padres' interest in Sandoval and Yasmany Tomas, it appears new general manager A.J. Preller is looking to make a statement this winter. While trading for Cespedes would only be a short-term solution, he's an everyday power bat and potential trade chip mid-season. Cespedes would be an intriguing piece for San Diego if it looks to move Kennedy and has trouble finding a more controllable asset.
1B/OF Allen Craig for Cincinnati Reds RHP Mat Latos
Why Boston would do it
Given their surplus of outfielders, the Red Sox might not have the patience to wait for Craig's return to form. Injuries played a part in Craig's 2014 regression and he currently finds himself without a starting spot in Boston's lineup. Latos, a free-agent-to-be, was slowed by elbow and wrist injuries last year, but has shown to be a top-to-mid rotation arm when healthy. The right-hander was worth the fifth-most WAR in the National League from 2011-13, and could be a low-risk, high-reward pickup on a one-year deal.
Why Cincinnati would do it
The Reds face the prospect of entering the 2015 season with four-fifths of their rotation, including ace Johnny Cueto, in walk years. Given Latos' elbow issues and diminished velocity, the ever-competitive Reds could view him as the expendable piece of the group. Cincinnati is reportedly looking to add another bat this offseason and preferably in the outfield. Craig's potential and three years of control figures to still have some value.
Top prospects for Philadelphia Phillies LHP Cole Hamels
Why Boston would do it
Because Hamels is one of the best lefties in baseball. Acquiring him, however, is more likely be a fall-back option for the Red Sox. Whereas the deals listed above would supplement a big free-agent signing, trading for Hamels would be a double-blow to Boston's plentiful resources in terms of both dollars and prospects.
Why Philadelphia would do it
Hamels is owed $90 million over the next four seasons, has a $20 million vesting option for 2019 (which includes a $6 million buyout) and represents the Phillies' best chance to rebuild quickly. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. would love to do business with Boston and its high-end system of prospects. The price tag for Hamels has been a topic of debate, but it's safe to assume landing the 30-year-old ace would require the Red Sox to absorb salary and also surrender high-end talent. Potential trade pieces would likely include top prospects such as Xander Bogaerts, Henry Owens, Mookie Betts and Blake Swihart.