The Boston Red Sox were reportedly exploring one of the biggest trades before the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline.
While Boston surprised many with its lack of trades, they were active behind the scenes. They managed to pull off a last-minute deal for former Brewers infielder Luis Urías, but they were also interested in a much larger move. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Red Sox attempted to acquire star pitcher Justin Verlander from the New York Mets before he was traded to the Houston Astros.
Rosenthal noted that the Red Sox, along with teams like the Dodgers, Diamondbacks, Braves, and Reds, struggled in the thin starting-pitching market. However, they were among the clubs that sought a deal for the accomplished three-time Cy Young Award winner, who ultimately went to his preferred destination, the Astros.
Verlander, who has a contract through next season with a conditional player option for 2025, likely would not have waived his no-trade clause for any team other than Houston. Despite this, his solid performance at Fenway Park—a 3.46 ERA in 75 1/3 innings, including two playoff appearances—wouldn’t have deterred the Red Sox.
If the Red Sox had secured Verlander, it would have been a surprising turn of events. Although Boston was looking for a new starting pitcher, the 40-year-old Verlander likely wouldn’t fit into their long-term plans. Additionally, Houston had to give up two of its top five prospects for Verlander, which suggests the Mets might have asked for someone like shortstop Marcelo Mayer in return.
Seeing Verlander pitch at Fenway would have been exciting, but the fact that Boston didn’t make any significant moves was notable.
So will the Tigers break the bank for him now ?
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