In-Division Seller Reportedly ‘Softening Stance’ On Red Sox Target

The Boston Red Sox are an obvious suitor for Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Yandy Diaz — should he soon come available.

Diaz, 33, is one of the most intriguing potential deadline trade candidates, having recently signed a three-year contract that still has a club option remaining for whichever team controls his rights through 2026.

The Red Sox appear to have interest in being that team, continuously being tied to the veteran throughout the last several weeks.

The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal recently stated his current club — the Tampa Bay Rays — have “softened their stance” on potentially trading the desirable bat while undergoing a brutal stretch that has pushed them outside playoff contention. Diaz is the kind of bat that can help a team make the postseason, though, which apparently is known in and around Fenway Park

“If (Tampa Bay) indeed becomes willing to move him, the Boston Red Sox will almost certainly be at the top of the list of teams interested,” Rosenthal said Saturday.

Diaz is slashing .287/.346/.470 with 17 home runs and 60 RBIs, and has a reputation for lengthening lineups with his uncanny ability to get on the pond. Boston surely would enjoy having him as an option in the lineup, with his abilities serving as an obvious upgrade over the likes of Romy González — whether some folks want to admit that or not.

The Red Sox will have to make a tough decision as to whether they want to completely replace their top platoon bat, but there’s clearly value in making a move for the top option on the trade market.

Do you think they make a move, Red Sox fans? Let us know in the comments!