The Boston Red Sox made one of the first big trades this offseason, when they dealt Richard Fitts and Brandon Clarke for Sonny Gray. However, many people believe this won’t be the last trade they make this offseason.
If the Sox want to make a big trade this offseason, they’re going to need a centerpiece. According to Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter, the Sox’ No. 1 prospect in LHP Payton Tolle is the main asset Boston will offer to potential trade partners.
“Left-hander Connelly Early outperformed Tolle down the stretch, and if the Red Sox do kick the tires on a blockbuster deal for someone like MacKenzie Gore or Joe Ryan, Tolle could be the first name opposing teams are asking for in trades,” Reuter wrote.
This past season, Tolle posted a 6.06 ERA, 19 Ks, and a WHIP of 1.592 in 19 innings pitched. However, in the minors, he posted a 3.04 ERA, 133 Ks, and a WHIP of 0.99 in 91 innings pitched.
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As of right now, Tolle has been designated from a starter to Boston’s long reliever. Hopefully, he can blossom in the role; otherwise, his fate may be becoming a centerpiece for a trade.
If the Sox can land a solid No. 2 pitcher for Tolle, it will hurt, but they have to deal him. If they can’t, they should hold onto him until the trade deadline next season to see if he can take that next step as a reliever.
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