Baseball people seem to believe Red Sox did better with second version of Mookie Betts trade
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Red Sox faced an overwhelmingly negative reaction last week when they first agreed to trade Mookie Betts and David Price to the Dodgers. But faulty medicals with one of the prospects involved in the deal gave them a reprieve.
Now, the Red Sox have emerged with a new package after righty Brusdar Graterol ended up staying in Los Angeles. Instead, the Red Sox got shortstop Jeter Downs (yes he’s named after Derek Jeter) and catcher Connor Wong to go with outfielder Alex Verdugo.
Because of this, “a number of baseball people” are telling top insider Ken Rosenthal that the Red Sox did much better on the second chance.
“Verdugo, Downs, project as regulars; Wong has good arm, power,” Rosenthal A number of baseball people saying #RedSox did well. Verdugo, Downs, project as regulars; Wong has good arm, power. Also moved half Price’s money. Deal at least comparable to what #DBacks got for Goldy, who cost less than Betts in walk year and had no other contracts attached.
May 1, 2019; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Red Sox right fielder Mookie Betts (50) reacts during the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
This won’t totally take the sting away from the mere fact that the Red Sox traded away the 2018 American League MVP and one of the best all-around players in the game. But at least chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom was able to wrest a better group of prospects without medical issues away from the Dodgers.
The problem is, it’s fair to wonder how much any of the prospects will help the 2020 Red Sox. They certainly won’t approach Betts’ level of production so soon. It’ll take time to see just how much better Bloom did after getting a do-over. So we’re not likely to have an answer after the coming season.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at [email protected].
