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The Boston Red Sox have struggled more this season than many expected. Injuries and some unnecessary drama have played a big part in these struggles, but that’s part of the game.
The Red Sox will likely look to upgrade a few positions with controllable trade options at the trade deadline if the price is right.
CBS Sports’ R.J. Anderson recently listed the Red Sox as a potential landing spot in a trade for Colorado Rockies infielder Ryan McMahon.
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“There’s no telling what awaits when it comes to the Rockies and the deadline, but McMahon is an interesting and (to an extent) self-contradicting player,” Anderson wrote. “At first blush, part of his appeal is his consistency: he’s on pace to extend his streak to five consecutive seasons with an OPS+ between 93 and 98. That, plus his quality defense at third base, would be enough to make him a good addition to most teams.
“Dig a little deeper, though, and it’s clear that his game is undergoing changes. He’s both swinging and hitting the ball harder than before, and he’s doing it at a different angle, allowing him to pull the ball in the air more readily. In theory, that gives him greater slugging capacity; in practice, it may lower the floor on his batting average as well because of his increased tendency to whiff.”
The 30-year-old has traditionally played third base for the Rockies, but in this potential deal, he would likely need to slide to first base to replace the injured Triston Casas.
McMahon has been a good option for the Rockies during his tenure in the big leagues. However, he’s never posted an OPS+ higher than 100. Still, he’s a net positive player who could be a good addition to Boston’s infield.
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