How Boston Can Improve Themselves By The Trading Deadline

If the Major League Baseball season ended today, the Boston Red Sox would win the American League Wild Card by 2.5 games ahead of the Texas Rangers. Boston is currently 2.5 games behind the New York Yankees. Boston was in first place until a few days ago, before they dropped 5 in a row. Boston is 1-5 so far since the All-Star break.

July 31, the MLB Trading Deadline, is a little over a week away. More and more rumors are swirling around the country regarding potential trades. But what does Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein need to do to improve his club and regain first place?

Boston's biggest need is another bat. Boston's offense has not been producing of late, and a big bat added to the line-up would be a nice boost. It would be really beneficial if they could get a bat like Victor Martinez or Adrian Gonzalez.

If you placed either Martinez or Gonzalez in the middle of the line-up, they could add some much needed protection and take pressure off hitters Jason Bay, David Ortiz and Kevin Youkilis. Ever since they traded away Manny Ramirez, Boston has been missing the long ball, so adding a player with some power would be a nice acquiescing.

Although Boston recently acquired first baseman Adam LaRoche, I don't think that is enough to help boost this struggling offense.

Boston doesn't really need another starting pitcher, but by adding Cy Young Award winning Roy Halladay to your staff not only improves your team tremendously, it also prevents other teams like the Tampa Bay Rays or New York Yankees from acquiring the Jays' ace.

The last thing Epstein can do this trading season is acquire some top hitting prospects and a top catching prospect. Boston is lacking prospects that present a power threat, so it makes sense to go out and get some prospects who do.

If Boston could move a player like Brad Penny or Manny Delcarmen to acquire a potiential replacement for Jason Varitek would be a great move.

Boston does have some areas of need, but I don't think if they don't make any moves they won't make the playoffs. Epstein should sit tight this trading season and be patient, and if the right trade presents itself, then get it done.