The Athletics and Red Sox may have stumbled into the kind of trade conversation that makes too much sense to ignore.
A few weeks ago, both clubs looked like they were drifting toward lost seasons. Then Boston ripped off a 15-game winning streak and suddenly stopped acting like a team on the outside looking in. The Red Sox are now positioned as serious deadline buyers, while the A’s are still trying to figure out how aggressive they want to be with a roster that’s supposed to be building toward contention next season or in their first year in Las Vegas in 2028.
That backdrop matters, because these two teams already made a small move together. Boston acquired infielder Brett Harris from the Athletics for minor league right-hander Ben Hansen, and then optioned Harris to Triple-A Worcester. To clear a spot on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated right-hander Tommy Kahnle for assignment.
That trade was minor, but it may have opened the door to something much bigger.
Shea Langeliers is the name drawing the loudest buzz, and for good reason. He’s described as a five-tool player, a leader, and the kind of talent and experience that would fit just about anywhere. The Red Sox are reportedly “salivating” over Langeliers, and the fit is obvious if Boston wants to upgrade behind the plate or add impact to the lineup.
But Langeliers is only part of the picture. Boston also has a clear need for a right-handed hitting outfielder, and Jahmai Jones has struggled badly in that role with a .149 batting average. Colby Thomas could be the kind of young answer that makes sense for the Red Sox.
There’s also been talk around shortstop, where Boston has shown interest in Zach Neto. If the Red Sox want to improve there, the Athletics could be open to moving some infield depth in exchange for young pitching. Max Muncy is another name that could help fill out that kind of deal.
Boston’s pitching depth is where the real leverage may sit. The Red Sox have ridden a strong staff during their surge, and while names like Sonny Gray and Aroldis Chapman were floated when Boston looked out of the race, that no longer feels like the path they’d take. Instead, the more realistic route is dealing from younger pitching depth to bolster the lineup.
Connelly Early stands out in that group. He looks like a young star and could step right into a major role for the A’s if he were included in a deal. Jake Bennett and Payton Tolle are also strong southpaws, though both have been important pieces of their current rotation and may be harder to pry away.
If the Athletics were to move someone like Langeliers, one of those arms would likely have to be part of the return. And if Oakland wanted to add some cheap value to the deal, Brayan Bello is a name to watch. He’s been having a super rough season, but he’s still young, and a change of scenery could help him get back to ace form.
With Boston looking to buy and Oakland holding pieces that fit what the Red Sox need, the ingredients are there for a deal over the next week or so.
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