The Boston Red Sox have surged back into playoff contention with a remarkable 10-game winning streak, bringing their record to 53-45. This impressive turnaround has placed them well within striking distance of a postseason berth as they head into the second half of the season. The team is in need of reinforcements, particularly in the starting rotation, following injuries to key pitchers like Hunter Dobbins and Tanner Houck. Speculation is rife around potential trade targets, with Arizona Diamondbacks' Merrill Kelly emerging as a prime candidate. At 37, Kelly is a pending free agent, presenting both an opportunity and a risk as the Red Sox weigh their future against current needs.

Kelly boasts an 8-5 record this season, with a 3.34 ERA and 113 strikeouts across 116 innings, making him a significant upgrade over the struggling Walker Buehler. While the Red Sox are proving to be a competitive team, the decision to pursue Kelly, along with potential prospects like Connelly Early and Payton Toll, could define their immediate future.