The Boston Red Sox are currently struggling with a mediocre 45-45 record in the 2025 MLB season, and their playoff hopes are on shaky ground. Sitting just 2.5 games out of the final wild card spot, the team faces critical decisions ahead of the impending trade deadline.

With the right moves, particularly in acquiring more power for their lineup, bullpen help, and possibly a starting pitcher, they could reclaim contention in the American League. Boston legend David Ortiz has urged the organization to take an aggressive approach during this period, emphasizing that their position in the division is manageable with several games left to play.

The San Diego Padres are eyeing a significant addition to their roster, particularly targeting left field. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale believes that Boston’s Jarren Duran stands out as the ideal candidate. Duran, despite being a left-handed hitter, has shown impressive potential, having earned an All-Star nod and MVP honors in 2024, where he recorded 8.7 WAR and led MLB with 48 doubles and 14 triples. Although his batting average this season sits at .255, his prior performance suggests he could elevate the Padres' struggling left field position.

With the Padres in need of a right-handed hitting outfielder, acquiring Duran would still provide a notable upgrade over current players like Bryce Johnson and Tyler Wade. His inclusion could help form a formidable outfield alongside Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jackson Merrill. Furthermore, Duran is under team control through 2028, making him an attractive long-term investment for San Diego.

The Boston Red Sox have reached a historic milestone in the 2025 season, achieving their 10,000th franchise victory with a convincing 10-3 win over the Washington Nationals. This remarkable accomplishment positions them among an elite group of only five MLB teams to achieve such a feat. With eight games remaining until the All-Star break, the Red Sox have leveled their season record at .500 and aim to continue this momentum.

The team's journey began in 1901 as the Boston Americans, and they've since transformed into one of baseball's most storied franchises, winning a total of eight World Series titles, the latest in 2018. Their rivalry with the New York Yankees is well-documented, as both teams are now part of this exclusive 10,000 wins club. The only other teams to have achieved this milestone include the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and St. Louis Cardinals, all from the National League.

The Boston Red Sox are on the cusp of the Wild Card race, just 2.5 games away from contention. With the return of key players like Alex Bregman and Masataka Yoshida, their roster is strengthening. However, the first base position remains a significant concern. Reports suggest that the Red Sox may pursue a trade for Carlos Santana from the Cleveland Guardians, who is expected to be available soon.

Despite Santana's recent struggles at the plate, with a .239 batting average, his experience and defensive skills could provide the stability the Red Sox desperately need. Having won a Gold Glove last season, Santana's defensive prowess as a switch hitter could be a boon for the Red Sox in their playoff push. Historically, he has also performed well at Fenway Park, boasting an .818 OPS there.

Roman Anthony, hailed as baseball's top prospect, reached the majors with high expectations, initially struggling by hitting just .074 in his first 27 at-bats. However, the young hitter quickly adapted, now boasting a .314 average over his last 50 at-bats. The Red Sox have placed him in crucial batting positions, and Anthony's recent success coincides with the team’s improved performance. Despite not hitting a home run in nearly three weeks, his contributions have helped keep the Red Sox competitive.

Manager Alex Cora noted Anthony's ability to adjust to the pressures of major league play, highlighting his focus on helping the team win daily. Anthony himself acknowledges the challenges transitioning from the minor leagues, emphasizing the importance of stepping up for the team. With contributions from fellow players and the Red Sox's emerging offense post-devers, prospects look promising for the rookie's future.