Both the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox entered the season with high aspirations. The Tigers were riding the momentum of their first playoff appearance in a decade, while the Red Sox, following an ambitious offseason overhaul, were looking to establish themselves as serious contenders. However, both teams have stumbled out of the gate, sitting at 2-4 after Wednesday’s games.
Despite their slow starts, Detroit and Boston may have found a way to help each other through a potential trade that addresses their respective outfield issues. Interestingly, the two clubs face opposite dilemmas in this regard.
A Trade That Solves Opposite Outfield Issues
The Tigers are dealing with an outfield shortage after suffering multiple injuries to key players. Parker Meadows, Matt Vierling, and Wenceel Pérez have all been sidelined since spring training, and their return timelines remain uncertain. The lack of depth has left Detroit scrambling for solutions.
Conversely, the Red Sox are dealing with an overabundance of outfielders, to the point where they had to demote Roman Anthony—Baseball Prospectus’ No. 1 overall prospect—to Triple-A Worcester simply because there wasn’t room for him on the roster.
This contrast has sparked trade speculation, with Fansided writer Katrina Stebbins proposing a move that would benefit both teams. The suggested deal would send backup outfielder Rob Refsnyder to the Tigers, providing Detroit with a reliable and cost-effective option while simultaneously clearing space in Boston for Anthony’s promotion.
Why Refsnyder Makes Sense for Detroit
Refsnyder, who has played a key utility role for the Red Sox, is a strong option for Detroit’s depleted outfield. He’s a particularly effective hitter against left-handed pitching, having posted a stellar .943 OPS against southpaws last season—significantly better than his .733 mark against righties.
Additionally, he wouldn’t be a financial burden for the Tigers. Refsnyder is owed just $2.1 million this season and is set to become a free agent at the end of the year. Given his contract status and role in Boston’s outfield logjam, the Red Sox are unlikely to demand a high-end prospect in return.
What the Red Sox Could Gain
The primary benefit for Boston in this trade would be the ability to call up Anthony, allowing him to gain valuable MLB experience. However, if the Red Sox want to secure a prospect in exchange for Refsnyder, they could look toward Detroit’s farm system for a long-term pitching project.
One potential candidate is 19-year-old right-handed pitcher Zach Swanson. A Rookie League prospect, Swanson is still years away from the majors, but he would add much-needed depth to Boston’s relatively thin pitching pipeline. While he wouldn’t be ready to contribute until near the end of the decade, his upside could make him a worthwhile addition for the Red Sox.
A Logical Move for Both Teams
For Detroit, acquiring Refsnyder would provide an immediate boost to their injury-riddled outfield, helping them stay competitive while waiting for Meadows, Vierling, and Pérez to return. Meanwhile, Boston would clear a path for one of the game’s top young prospects while potentially adding a developmental arm to their system.
If both front offices see the value in this deal, it could be a win-win solution to each team’s early-season struggles.
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