The recent success of the Boston Red Sox has shifted the national perception. Once seen as a team gearing up for contention next season, the Red Sox are increasingly proving their potential this season. A playoff berth is now a realistic possibility.
ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan recently evaluated potential “contenders” across the league, focusing on identifying the ideal trade deadline acquisition for each team.
According to Passan, the “perfect match” for Boston would be Los Angeles Angels infielder Luis Rengifo. The 27-year-old, under team control until after the 2025 season, offers versatility by playing second base and shortstop—positions of need for the Red Sox—as well as a potent bat. Passan noted that acquiring Rengifo would be a prudent move to bolster the team immediately and provide flexibility for the future.
Rengifo has primarily played third base this season but has significant experience at middle infield positions, making him valuable to the Red Sox, who have used nine different players at second base. Moreover, acquiring Rengifo wouldn’t require Boston to make a costly, all-in move.
While currently trailing the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles in the AL East standings, the Red Sox hold the AL’s third wild-card spot, half a game ahead of the Kansas City Royals as of Tuesday.
Rengifo, a Venezuela native, has played his entire six-year MLB career with the Angels. Last season, he posted a batting line of .264/.339/.444 with 16 home runs, 51 RBIs, and six stolen bases in 126 games. In the current season, he has slashed .311/.360/.420 with four homers, 20 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases through 61 games.
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