With less than a week until the July 30 trade deadline, there is speculation about whether the Boston Red Sox might swing a deal for a recent National League Rookie of the Year to bolster their middle infield. This consideration comes at a crucial time, as the Red Sox are struggling, having started the second half of the season with a disappointing 1-4 record. The team’s chief baseball officer, Craig Breslow, is focused on upgrading the pitching staff, but he is also reportedly interested in acquiring a right-handed bat.
Most analysts expect Breslow’s main move to be for pitching, given that both the rotation and bullpen have been depleted recently. However, some believe that reinforcing the middle infield should also be a priority, particularly with a right-handed hitter who can extend the lineup. FOX Sports’ Rowan Kavner suggested that the Red Sox rank last in the majors in weighted runs created plus (wRC+) at second base, and therefore could benefit from acquiring someone like Cincinnati Reds second baseman Jonathan India.
India is having a solid season, hitting .275 with 30 extra-base hits, including eight home runs, 40 RBIs, and a .796 OPS (122 OPS+) in 93 games. While India’s offensive skills are apparent, his defensive capabilities are questionable. Throughout his career, he has accrued -22 outs above average, making him a defensive liability, although he has shown improvement in 2024.
Despite India’s potential to boost the Red Sox lineup, there are concerns about his fit with the team’s timeline. Boston expects to have shortstop Trevor Story back by spring training, and Vaughn Grissom is already in rehab games. Additionally, star prospect Marcelo Mayer is excelling in the minors, and Nick Yorke is having a breakout performance in Triple-A Worcester. Given these prospects, adding another controllable middle infielder like India, who has two more years of team control after 2024, might not align with the team’s plans.
The focus for the Red Sox should be on bolstering their pitching staff and possibly seeking a rental right-handed bat to complement Masataka Yoshida as a platoon designated hitter. Alternatively, they could look for a right-handed outfielder to allow Ceddanne Rafaela to remain at shortstop indefinitely. The team needs to address these critical areas to improve their chances as they approach the trade deadline.
