SEATTLE -- The Red Sox will be looking to beef up at third base and in the bullpen as the non-waiver trade deadline approaches at 4 p.m. on July 31. Here are some possible targets, ranked in order of desirability:
THIRD BASE
Note: The Red Sox' need at third may have been lessened by Sunday's promotion of Rafael Devers from Pawtucket.
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Jed Lowrie, Oakland
Pros: Versatile; solid offensive player.
Cons: Not much power; durability has been an issue.
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David Freese, Pittsburgh
Pros: Veteran with winning background; asking price would be modest.
Cons: Suspect defensively; no real power.
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Wilmer Flores, Mets
Pros: Can play other positions (1B, 2B); low salary.
Cons: Shaky defense; little power.
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Eduardo Nunez, San Francisco
Pros: Enjoying best offensive season; offers base-stealing ability.
Cons: Average defense; do the Sox want another former Giants third baseman?
BULLPEN
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Justin Wilson, Detroit
Pros: Power arm that gets swings-and-misses; lefthanded.
Cons: In-demand reliever would come with huge asking price.
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A.J. Ramos, Florida
Pros: Controllable through 2018; has closing experience.
Cons: Walk rate (20 in 37.1 IP) can be daunting; 3.96 ERA is tied for highest in his career.
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Brad Hand, San Diego
Pros: Like Wilson, a power lefty; great strikeout numbers.
Cons: Didn’t blossom until pitching in pitcher’s paradise in San Diego; Sox would be wary of dealing with Padres after Drew Pomeranz fiasco.
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Pat Neshek, Philadelphia
Pros: Sidearm delivery makes him a nightmare for RH hitters; modest asking price.
Cons: Current 1.14 ERA may be aberration; has been successful vs. LH hitters this season, but not in career.
