Rumored Red Sox Trade Target Sent To Division Rival
The Toronto Blue Jays, in somewhat of a surprising season, sit atop the American League East ahead of the trade deadline. They’re currently 64-46, four games ahead of the New York Yankees for the division lead.
According to Jeff Passan, Toronto is acquiring Shane Bieber from the Cleveland Guardians. The Boston Red Sox were interested in Bieber this offseason, and reportedly rekindled that interest at the deadline.
The deal is pending medical review, but Toronto is rumored to send pitching prospect Khal Stephen to Cleveland in return, according to Jon Morosi.
Bieber hasn’t pitched this season and has only thrown 12 innings since 2024. The right underwent Tommy John Surgery and is currently on a rehab assignment, nearing a return to major league action.
Bieber was one of the best pitchers in the American League before getting injured. He’s pitched in seven seasons and registered a 3.22 career ERA. He won the American League Cy Young Award in the shortened 2020 season.
The Red Sox will have to turn their sights elsewhere if they want to acquire starting pitching. They’re reportedly interested in Arizona Diamondbacks pitchers Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen, who are both on expiring contracts.
The trade deadline strikes at 6 p.m. ET on Thursday.