The Boston Red Sox are widely expected to become sellers at the MLB trade deadline, with rival executives circling as the organization prepares to listen on several veteran assets. Sitting in last place and well out of playoff contention, the club appears poised to reshape its roster before July 31.
According to MLB insider Steve Phillips, one team that stands out as a natural trade partner for Boston is the New York Yankees, who could pursue reliever Aroldis Chapman. Chapman, a left-handed closer with a history of postseason experience, would bolster a bullpen for a contender seeking late-inning help.
The Red Sox' expected sell-off comes amid a broader July trade landscape where multiple clubs face pivotal decisions. CBS Sports identified seven teams with something to prove this month, including the Blue Jays and Mariners, who must decide whether to buy or sell based on their competitive windows.
Boston's direction will heavily influence the AL East race and the playoff picture. If the team moves key veterans, it could provide a talent infusion for a buyer while the Red Sox pivot toward developing younger players. The trade deadline is July 31.
Despite the sell signals, some rival evaluators caution that Boston's front office may be reluctant to move all veterans, preferring to retain certain core players for a 2027 rebound. The team also holds the 20th pick in the upcoming draft, giving it additional avenues for roster improvement beyond trades.