This Red Sox-Mets Trade for Jackie Bradley Jr. Could Actually Work
By Karl Rasmussen
Jackie Bradley Jr.'s glove has made him a mainstay in Boston's starting lineup, but frustration over his inability to produce at the plate has been building over the past few years. Considering the Red Sox signed Kevin Pillar this offseason, JBJ may be deemed surplus to requirements in Boston. One team that could be interested in the defensive stalwart is the New York Mets.
The Mets' need for a center fielder has been well-documented, especially following the latest hitch to Michael Conforto. While the delayed season could end up benefitting his timetable, the Mets will still be searching for a more defensive-minded center fielder to add to the fold. Well, they should look no further than JBJ, who could likely be acquired at a reasonable price.
The Mets don't have a stacked farm system by any means, but there are some prospects who could be of interest to the Red Sox in a potential trade.
The Red Sox will be eager to add to their pitching depth for the future, which makes 18-year-old right-hander Matthew Allan a key component of a possible swap. Allan, a third-round pick in 2019, doesn't figure to be MLB ready for at least another few years, but impressed in limited work for the Brooklyn Cyclones.
Pairing Allan with versatile 19-year-old Endy Rodriguez, the Mets' No. 10 ranked prospect, could prove enough to force Boston's hand. Rodriguez plays both catcher and outfield, so his versatility is something which could intrigue the Red Sox.
The Mets are looking to grapple with the rest of the top-heavy NL East, and adding Jackie Bradley Jr. and his top-tier defense to the roster in Flushing would be an impactful move.