After the stunning news that the Boston Red Sox had traded superstar Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants sent shockwaves throughout Major League Baseball, a new question arises: What other moves might the Red Sox make before the MLB trade deadline?
Boston currently sits just one game below .500 and is only half a game out of a Wild Card spot. However, they trail the New York Yankees by 6.5 games in the AL East.
It remains to be seen whether the Red Sox will stay competitive or choose to pivot and sell. If they don’t make a strong push before the deadline, they could look to move a pair of notable pitchers on expiring contracts.
1. Justin Wilson is having a resurgent season
Justin Wilson, who’s poised to hit free agency this winter, is enjoying an impressive resurgence in 2025. After struggling with a 5.59 ERA for Cincinnati last year, the veteran lefty has bounced back with a stellar 2.25 ERA this season. Given his previous success—posting ERAs of 2.81 in 2021 and 2.45 in 2022—it’s clear that Wilson is returning to form, which will no doubt attract interest from contending teams in need of bullpen help.
Currently on a one-year, \$2.25 million deal with Boston, any team trading for him would be taking on only a minimal financial commitment. This gives the Red Sox an opportunity to further bolster their already strong farm system, especially after the significant return from the Devers trade. If moved at the deadline, Wilson could net Boston a solid prospect from a bullpen-hungry contender.
2. Aroldis Chapman hasn’t lost a beat
Turning back to the left-handed relief market, Aroldis Chapman has been outstanding for the Red Sox this season. While he comes at a higher price tag than Justin Wilson — earning \$10.75 million in 2025 — his elite resume makes him a valuable trade chip who could bring Boston a top-tier prospect in return. Across his 16-year MLB career, Chapman boasts a 2.59 ERA, ranks 14th all-time in saves, and is third among active relievers in that category.
This year, he’s posted a stellar 1.55 ERA with 12 saves and is performing at a level reminiscent of his dominant 2016 campaign, when he helped lead the Cubs to a World Series title. His strikeout rate of 12.9 K/9 remains elite, and his 2.21 FIP indicates his results are legitimate, not a product of luck.
If the Red Sox make him available, expect widespread interest. Teams like the Cubs and Dodgers — both looking to fortify their rotations and bullpens — could be especially aggressive suitors.
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