Post by tjb21 on Jul 25, 2023 11:25:14 GMT -5
Obviously keeping Paxton is the best shot at making a postseason run this year, but I’m intrigued by him and his value. Reportedly, rental starters are commanding a high price this deadline. Would that be greater than a comp pick? Would he just accept the QO at the end of the year? I’d feel a little uneasy having nearly 50 million in cash tied up in Sale and Paxton heading into 2024 but the free agent market is slim pickings anyway. Don’t feel like there’s a clear and obvious way to go with him.
I think a contending team might go bananas and offer a top-50 prospect, and maybe a fringe top-100 prospect for him.
That being said, this is purely hypothetical, and I would be pretty furious if the Red Sox traded him based on where the team stands heading into the deadline.
I'd be wary of an extension though, I certainly agree on that. If the Red Sox stay under the luxury tax at this deadline and have a tax reset this offseason, as they are planning for, there is no reason they shouldn't be able to go out and sign two top tier starting pitchers in free agency. And get a comp pick after extending a qualifying offer to Paxton
IMO: Boston would be foolish to turn this hypothetical offer down.