The Boston Red Sox likely will be busy as the 2023 MLB Trade Deadline approaches.
Boston is 26-23 so far this season and is just two and a half games behind the Houston Astros for the American League’s third wild card spot.
The Red Sox already have surprised people this season, but the club should get even better shortly as outfielder Adam Duvall and infielder Trevor Story eventually return from injuries.
If Boston can remain in the postseason hunt, it likely will make a move or two around the deadline to improve the club’s chances. One area of the club has made a specific effort to improve is the bullpen.
The Red Sox had one of the worst bullpens in all of baseball in 2022, but it already is improving thanks to three-time All-Star Kenley Jansen, righty Chris Martin, and the ascension of young hurlers Josh Winckowski and Kutter Crawford.
Although Boston’s bullpen has been improved, the club could use another arm due to injuries and one familiar face who reportedly may become available is fireballer Joe Kelly, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale.
“Certainly, the (Chicago White Sox) will be baseball’s most popular team at the trade deadline barring a sudden turnaround,” Nightengale said. “They could shop (Tim Anderson), starters Lucas Giolito, Lance Lynn, and Mike Clevinger, and reliever Joe Kelly.”
The 34-year-old is having an impressive bounce-back season and has compiled a 2.51 ERA so far this season across 14 appearances for the White Sox. Kelly has struck out 19 batters so far this season in 14 1/3 innings pitched while walking just one hitter.
The longtime member of the Red Sox is in the 97th percentile for fastball velocity this season and has shown no signs of slowing down.
If he were to be dealt this season, he would be the perfect addition to the Boston bullpen. Kelly joined the Red Sox in 2014 and was an important part of the club’s bullpen through the 2018 season.
The fireballer helped lead Boston to the 2018 World Series title and didn’t allow a run across five appearances against the Dodgers.
Boston’s top arms have been solid so far in the bullpen, but the club could use another option. Kelly — who over his time with Boston developed into a fan favorite — could be that person.
