MLB Trade Rumors: Why Trading Cody Ross Would Be an Awful Move for Red Sox

MLB Trade Rumors recently reported the Boston Red Sox could use Cody Ross as a trade chip at the July 31 trade deadline.  

There was no information as to what the Red Sox would want in return, but it is no secret they need starting pitching. Even if he was traded for a starting pitcher, Ross is more valuable as a member of the Red Sox than the caliber of pitcher they would most likely get in return. 

This would be a terrible move for the Red Sox on a number of levels. First of all, Ross is absolutely crushing the ball right now, and he seems fully recovered from the broken bone in his foot.

Ross is hitting .283 with 11 home runs and 38 RBI. He has an OPS of .931.

Ross looks like a completely revitalized player after a subpar 2011 season with the San Francisco Giants.

Last season Ross hit .240 with 14 home runs and 52 RBI. Ross is on pace to easily surpass those numbers this season. Fenway Park seems tailor-made for Ross’ swing.

Ross has played 10 more games at home this season than away, so his power and RBI numbers are obviously skewed in favor of Fenway. But one number stands out: He has 11 doubles at Fenway compared to just three away.

He has the Green Monster to thank for that.

In addition to his effectiveness at home, Ross is a positive influence in the clubhouse. A positive influence is something the Red Sox sorely need. Look no further than Ryan Kalish for proof that Ross brings an immense amount of positivity to this Red Sox team. 

After Kalish made a potentially costly error against the Miami Marlins on June 19, Ross was the guy right there to pick him up. According to ESPN, Ross told the distraught Kalish: 

"

Listen, man, we’ve all done it. We’ve all dropped fly balls. I dropped one this year already. I’ve misplayed a few balls. It happens. Shake it off. You’re a great outfielder and we’re going to get out of this right here.

"

Whether or not stories of a dysfunctional Red Sox clubhouse have been overblown or not, Ross is still a guy the Red Sox would be foolish to trade away. Even with the imminent return of Carl Crawford and Jacoby Ellsbury, Ross is an important part the Red Sox outfield and clubhouse.

He also helps to even out the lineup as a right-handed hitter.

Ross is a character player who is hitting well right now. He is not a player the Red Sox should even think about trading away if they want to make a run at the postseason.