Josh Bell #9 of the Miami Marlins
The Boston Red Sox show immense promise but require a spark to unlock their full potential.
Despite boasting one of the best starting rotations in baseball, the Red Sox are just 30-30 this season, largely due to injuries plaguing their offense.
The team is currently without emerging first baseman Triston Casas, and attempts to fill his role with veterans Dominic Smith and Garrett Cooper have fallen short, with both players hitting below .200 and combining for just one home run and 18 RBIs.
With Casas sidelined until at least the end of June, Boston could use an upgrade at first base. One player who might fit the bill is Miami Marlins slugger Josh Bell.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, Bell has frequently appeared in trade rumors this season and is likely to be traded.
“President of baseball operations Peter Bendix is in his first year with the club, so nobody knows how he will approach his first Trade Deadline as the lead executive,” Feinsand said. “But Tanner Scott and Josh Bell — both of whom will be free agents at the end of the season — figure to draw interest, as does Jesus Lúzardo, who is under club control for two more years. Bryan De La Cruz will be arbitration-eligible for the first time this winter, so the Marlins could move him if the right offer comes along.”
The former All-Star started the season slowly but has since hit six home runs, driven in 28 runs, and posted a slash line of .243/.316/.372 in 60 games.
The Red Sox have struggled to get production from the first base position since losing Casas, and acquiring someone like Bell could provide a much-needed boost. While Casas will return in June, the Red Sox need offensive help now. If the Marlins are open to offers, Boston should seriously consider reaching out about Bell.
