MLB trade rumors: One player each team should target

Boston Red Sox

J.T. Realmuto, C

The owners of baseball’s best record don’t have many holes on their roster. However, they are also the owners of baseball’s biggest payroll. So, whatever help they are able to bring in will have to be cheap.

They have no need for help in their loaded outfield and the infield is set at all positions besides catcher. On the mound, once Rick Porcello and David Price round into form, the starters will be in good shape while the bullpen could use more help. However, the top value bullpen options with expiring contracts are all either expensive or on a playoff contender. They would likely have to opt for Tyler Clippard or Aaron Loup, neither of whom will be a large difference maker.

However, if they acquire J.T. Realmuto, they drastically improve their catching situation. Realmuto has the second highest WAR among catchers with 150 or more plate appearances. He’s going to come to the Red Sox and continue to be great both offensively and defensively. Through 62 games, the Red Sox have 2 home runs, 14 RBIs, and a .212 batting average from their catchers. Realmuto, in 39 games, has 6 home runs, 18 RBIs, and a .301 batting average. He would flip the script for the Red Sox, removing the hole from their lineup.

Defensively, Realmuto has the best pop time in baseball. So, he can take pressure off of Red Sox pitchers who know he can eliminate base runners trying to steal. The Red Sox need to pounce on the fact that Realmuto wants out of Miami and can be their catcher for the next 2.5 years.