Red Sox Trade Alex Verdugo to Yankees for Three Right-Handed Relievers

Deal Details

The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees have made a trade, marking only the fourth trade between the two clubs in the last 25 years. The Red Sox have traded outfielder Alex Verdugo to the Yankees in exchange for three right-handed relievers. The trade includes Richard Fitts, Greg Weissert, and Nicholas Judice.

A Baffling Deal

Many are puzzled by this trade, as it seems strange for the Yankees to acquire Verdugo unless they have another move in mind. Verdugo’s potential earnings in arbitration also make this deal questionable. However, if the Yankees plan to keep him, one argument could be that they believe he will benefit from the short porch in Yankee Stadium’s right field.

Verdugo’s Role and Performance

It is important to recognize that Alex Verdugo is a platoon player. Over the past three years, he has struggled against left-handed pitchers, with a batting average of .238 and an on-base percentage of .301. Playing him every day has cost the Red Sox wins, especially considering his below-average defense and occasional lack of hustle. Additionally, Verdugo is expected to earn close to $10 million in arbitration this year, making him a non-tender consideration.

The Value for the Red Sox

In return for Verdugo, the Red Sox receive three right-handed relievers. Greg Weissert has some major-league experience and has shown success with his fastball and four-seamer. Richard Fitts has had success in Double A but lacks standout pitches. Nicholas Judice, an eighth-round pick in 2023, provides organizational pitching depth. While these pitchers may not have high ceilings, shedding Verdugo’s salary and his struggles against left-handed pitchers is a valuable move for the Red Sox.

(Top photo of Verdugo: Nathan Ray Seebeck / USA Today)