How the Red Sox can capitalize on the Blue Jays' struggles

As the 2024 MLB trade deadline approaches, the Boston Red Sox find themselves in somewhat of a desperate position. They currently sit at 53-46, and are two games out of a wild-card spot ahead of Tuesday night's ballgame against the Colorado Rockies

However, amidst their competitive record and good positioning in the standings, they have one major flaw on their team: their bullpen. Their bullpen has been inconsistent all season long, however, they have been amongst the worst in baseball as of late. Since returning from the all-star break, the Red Sox bullpen is 0-3 with a 7.20 ERA in 15 innings of work.

One opportunity for them to improve this area of play lies within their division. The Toronto Blue Jays have been struggling dearly all season long, and they will likely be selling some of their big-name relievers, namely Chad Green and Yimi Garcia.

Chad Green, a seasoned right-hander, brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success in high-leverage situations. In 2024, Green has posted a 1.88 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP across 28.2 innings. He has also spent some time as the Blue Jays closer this season and is 7/7 in save opportunities.

He has successfully pitched in other roles, too, including as a setup man, and middle reliever. This flexibility allows the Red Sox to deploy him strategically based on game situations, providing manager Alex Cora with a valuable weapon in the bullpen.

Yimi Garcia offers a different but equally valuable skill set. Known for his control and consistency, Garcia has been a reliable presence in the Blue Jays' bullpen. In 2024, he maintained a 2.48 ERA and a 0.76 WHIP over 29 innings.

Garcia's experience as both a setup man and a closer adds to his appeal. He has converted five saves in six opportunities this season, indicating his capability to handle the ninth inning if needed. His calm demeanor and ability to execute pitches in high-stress situations make him a valuable addition to any contending team.

To acquire Green or Garcia, the Red Sox must craft a trade package that addresses the Blue Jays' needs while not depleting their own farm system. The Jays may be interested in acquiring young, controllable talent to bolster their future prospects.

It is never fun to negotiate with other teams in your division. If the Red Sox are serious about winning now, however, then adding Green or Garcia would significantly enhance their bullpen, addressing the team's most pressing need.