Summary
The Boston Red Sox may trade outfielder Masataka Yoshida due to an excess of skilled outfield players on their roster. Yoshida has not shown the power expected from his previous performance in Japan and has been primarily serving as a designated hitter. With younger players ready to step in, it may make sense for the team to trade Yoshida to alleviate the crowded roster and save money.
Key Facts
- The Red Sox have many quality outfielders, making Yoshida less needed.
- Yoshida signed a five-year, $90 million contract before the 2023 MLB season.
- In Japan, Yoshida had several high home run seasons, but he's only hit 29 home runs in 303 MLB games.
- Yoshida missed much of the previous season due to an injury.
- The team has four other players better suited for outfield positions: Jarren Duran, Roman Anthony, Wilyer Abreu, and Ceddanne Rafaela.
- Yoshida's current role is primarily as a designated hitter, but the team needs that spot for younger players.
- Red Sox insider Chris Cotillo predicts a trade involving Yoshida to clear the outfield logjam.
- Yoshida is expected to earn over $18 million next season, which could make trading him challenging.
