The Boston Red Sox are still within striking distance of a wild card spot and could be buyers at the trade deadline. They could be in the market for a first baseman.
The Red Sox have lacked consistency at first base since Triston Casas suffered a season-ending knee injury. They could swing a trade for Rhys Hoskins, who may suddenly be available. He is on the injured list with a sprained thumb. In his absence, the Milwaukee Brewers called up former No. 3 overall pick Andrew Vaughn. His Brewers debut was great, and could crack the door open for a Hoskins trade.
Vaughn blasted a three-run home run off All-Star Yoshinobu Yamamoto in the first inning. He also drew a walk in the Brewers' blowout of the Los Angeles Dodgers. FanSided's Christopher Kline suggested the Red Sox could trade for Hoskins if the Brewers are pleased with Vaughn. Hoskins signed a two-year, $34 million deal last year and has an $18 million mutual option next year.
"The Boston Red Sox stand out as the obvious landing spot. After basically trading their franchise centerpiece because he refused to switch to first, Boston has been cycling through a committee led by Abraham Toro," wrote Kline. "Kristian Campbell is learning first base with Triple-A Worcester, but the Red Sox would benefit from a proven, everyday option at the position — not to mention another right-handed slugger to balance out an increasingly young lineup."
Hoskins' batting average was down last year, after missing all of 2023 with an ACL tear. He still managed to hit 26 home runs. Now his batting average is back around where it was when he was with the Phillies. However, Vaughn is a cheaper option and may have found a new gear with the Brewers.
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Vaughn had a .189 batting average with the White Sox this season. His career numbers also have not lived up to those of a former No. 3 overall pick. However, with Brewers Triple-A affiliate, he was slashing .259/.338/.500 with three home runs. If his career has found new life, the Red Sox could capitalize by getting Hoskins. The Brewers are not going to trade Hoskins based on one game with Vaughn. However, with Hoskins on the injured list, Vaughn has the opportunity to give the Brewers a decision to make.
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