The Boston Red Sox entered the 2025 season with high hopes, expecting their offseason moves to position them as World Series contenders and likely buyers at the MLB trade deadline. However, as July rolls in, the team is now trending toward being sellers in the coming weeks.
According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, MLB executives consider Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman the most likely reliever to be moved at the deadline. While a large majority of executives expect Chapman to be traded, some also believe that third baseman Alex Bregman could be dealt as well.
Chapman, 37, has been outstanding this season, posting a 1.29 ERA, 0.77 WHIP, 15 saves, a .411 OPS allowed, and limiting hitters to a .140 batting average over 35 innings (per ESPN). He also ranks fifth among all relievers in strikeout rate (38.6%) and fourth in K-BB rate (31.1%), and is one of only two relievers holding opponents below a .140 average this year.
With less than half of Chapman’s $10.75 million salary still owed, he represents a cost-effective bullpen upgrade. His expiring contract and low likelihood of re-signing with Boston after the season further increase the chances he’ll be dealt.
From June 17 to July 3, the Red Sox managed just five wins—tied for the fewest in MLB during that span. That slump has dropped them to fourth place in the AL East and close to joining the Twins and Guardians near the bottom of the American League standings.
As for Bregman, a trade appears unlikely for now, especially following the surprising mid-June deal that sent Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. However, if the Red Sox’s struggles continue and Bregman signals his intent to test free agency this winter, the team could reconsider moving him.