MLB Trade Rumors: Pitcher Would ‘Absolutely Love’ To Play For Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox could seek pitching reinforcements before MLB’s July 31 trade deadline. A potential target may have hit the block.

On Thursday, Aaron Civale requested a trade after the Milwaukee Brewers moved him to the bullpen. He’s reportedly interested in Boston.

MassLive’s Chris Cotillo reported Thursday that Civale “would absolutely love to pitch for the Red Sox at some point in his career.”

Civale has a 4.06 ERA in 122 career starts. The right-hander has never pitched from the bullpen since joining the majors in 2019, but the Brewers made the switch after promoting flame-throwing pitching prospect Jacob Misiorowski.

Civale discussed his preference to remain a starter when speaking to reporters Thursday, per MLB.com’s Adam McCalvy.

“We’re exploring opportunities for me to get back into a rotation, whether that’s here or elsewhere,” Civale said. “That type of decision is out of my hands.”

On his 30th birthday, Civale confirmed that the request is linked entirely to his desired role.

“I still feel like I have a lot left to give as a starting pitcher,” Civale said. “The decision, the directions, those are out of the players’ hands. This is not a situation where I’m trying to leave this team. All the guys are great. Coaching staff is great. The players are great. I love competing with all of them. Just, I feel like I still have more to contribute and more to give to this game, and I feel I’m best suited to do that as a starting pitcher.”

It remains to be seen whether the Brewers will accommodate Civale or if the Red Sox would be interested in him. Seventy games into the 2025 season, Boston’s rotation has a 4.50 ERA.

The Red Sox may still trust Walker Buehler, Lucas Giolito and Brayan Bello to hit their stride. Hunter Dobbins has offered solid production, and Tanner Houck could also deliver a boost if he returns from the injured list before the deadline.