The tables have completely turned for the Boston Red Sox with the MLB trade deadline approaching, as the Red Sox have gone on a heater to re-establish themselves playoff contenders.
So, who will Boston pursue between now and Aug. 3?
Well, speculation continues to swirl around Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams and which contending clubs might pursue him if the Nationals opt to sell. Not surprisingly, many view the shortstop-needy Red Sox as a potential landing spot.
In an analysis for FanSided, Christopher Kline outlined a realistic trade scenario that would send Abrams to Fenway Park in exchange for a substantial package of young talent.
In Kline’s proposed trade, Boston would send over a quartet of prospects headlined by two of the organization’s higher-ranked talents. Nineteen-year-old outfielder Justin Gonzales and 21-year-old right-hander Kyson Witherspoon, both currently at High-A, form the centerpiece. Witherspoon in particular has drawn attention for his sharp repertoire and the potential to advance quickly through the system.
Joining them would be 22-year-old infielder Mikey Romero, who has shown pull-side power that could develop further with better swing decisions, and 27-year-old right-handed reliever Tyler Uberstine, a more major-league-ready arm who could provide immediate help to Washington’s struggling bullpen.
The structure of the deal balances immediate contributions with longer-term upside for the Nationals while giving the Red Sox a controllable shortstop who could anchor their infield for years. Whether such a trade materializes depends on Washington’s willingness to pivot fully toward the future and Boston’s readiness to part with significant prospect capital.
For a Red Sox club eyeing October baseball, the opportunity to add Abrams’ unique blend of power and speed represents a chance to strengthen a key position without mortgaging the entire farm system.
Abrams is slashing .288/.361/.544 with 24 home runs and 76 RBI over 427 plate appearances this season. He has also stolen 16 bases.
The former top prospect began his career with the San Diego Padres, but was traded to the Nationals in the deal that sent Juan Soto to San Diego back in 2022.
Up until 2026, Abrams had failed to live up to expectations. He had certainly shown offensive potential, but never truly realized it until this year. That is made evident by the fact that he owns a lifetime .747 OPS, which is respectable, but hardly fantastic.
Perhaps Abrams has finally broken out, but the 25-year-old definitely comes with some caveats.
Not only are there legitimate questions as to whether or not Abrams’ production at the dish will be sustainable (based on his history), but he is also one of the worst defensive shortstops in all of baseball.
Would a volatile player like Abrams really be worth such a monster trade package? We’ll see if Boston decides to make a push for the Alpharetta, Ga. native in the coming days.
