MLB Rumors: Top trade target for NY Mets, Red Sox and Cardinals

MLB Rumors: Red Sox trade target Lucas Giolito

The Boston Red Sox lack pitching, even with the recent resurgence of Chris Sale. Assuming Boston can maintain its relatively surprising status in the American League Wild Card race, Lucas Giolito is a popular trade target for a team that needs high-end pitching. FanSided’s Cody Williams laid out the argument in trading for Giolito:

"“In eight starts, Giolito already has five Quality Starts to his credit while posting a 3.59 ERA and 1.11 WHIP on the year. He’s looked back in All-Star-caliber form but has just been saddled with a Chicago team that just looks lost. If the Red Sox can offer some high-end prospects for Giolito, he would be a phenomenal fit in the rotation, especially if Chris Sale can continue on the uptick as he has been recently. That’s a fantastic 1-2 punch that would answer a ton of questions about Boston’s ceiling in the 2023 season.”"

Any trade for Giolito would include some near-MLB ready prospects. In mock trade packages earlier this week, I suggested the Braves trade young shortstop Vaughn Grissom, as an example. FanSided’s Robert Murray considered Giolito as “likely” to be dealt earlier this week given the White Sox current struggles. He’s on an expiring deal, also.

Dylan Cease is the shiny toy most teams will be distracted by at the deadline, but Giolito is the more cost-effective option. Boston should take a swing while they can.