The St. Louis Cardinals have made a strategic move to bolster their bullpen by acquiring Jorge Alcala from the Boston Red Sox. Despite a challenging season, where he recorded a 6.64 ERA over 40.2 innings with a concerning 12.1% walk rate, his potential remains appealing due to a fastball that can exceed 100 mph. Comparatively, other elite relievers like Emmanuel Clase and Josh Hader boast significantly better walk rates.

Additionally, the Cardinals secured Anthony Veneziano from the Miami Marlins. Veneziano's performance this year shows a more respectable 4.74 ERA across 21 innings. With JoJo Romero as the only lefty available following John King's injury, Veneziano is expected to make an immediate impact in Triple-A before potentially joining the big leagues. These acquisitions reflect the Cardinals' intent to refine their relief options amidst a season of significant trades.

The Minnesota Twins have made a significant trade, sending struggling reliever Jorge Alcala to the Boston Red Sox for minor leaguer Andy Lugo. Alcala, 29, has had a rough season with a dismal 8.88 ERA over 22 appearances, including a disastrous outing where he allowed five runs in a recent loss. His potential was evident when he pitched a career-high 59 games in 2021, but his performance has notably declined since then. Lugo, 21, is hitting .265 with four home runs and is primarily an infielder. To accommodate Alcala, Boston designated pitcher Brian Van Belle for assignment.

The Minnesota Twins have traded struggling reliever Jorge Alcala to the Boston Red Sox in exchange for minor league player Andy Lugo. Alcala, who has had a rough season with an 8.88 ERA over 22 appearances, struggled in his last outing, giving up five runs against Texas. After a promising 2024 season, in which he had a 3.24 ERA in 54 games, this year has seen him falter significantly. Meanwhile, Lugo, a 21-year-old infielder, has shown potential in High-A Greenville, recording a .265 batting average with four home runs.

The Red Sox made room for Alcala by designating right-handed pitcher Brian Van Belle for assignment. Alcala's addition is aimed at bolstering the Red Sox's bullpen, while Lugo provides the Twins with a promising prospect. To complete the transaction, the Twins have brought in left-hander Joey Wentz from Pittsburgh to fill the 26-man roster spot vacated by Alcala.

The Minnesota Twins have traded pitcher Jorge Alcalá to the Boston Red Sox in exchange for utility player Andy Lugo. This move follows Alcalá's disappointing season, where he allowed 24 earned runs over 24.1 innings, marking one of his least effective performances since joining the Twins. Alcalá, known for his fastball, struggled with giving up home runs and walks, leading to this roster decision aimed at accommodating newly acquired lefty Joey Wentz.

In return, the Twins receive Andy Lugo, a promising 21-year-old utility player from the Red Sox's minor leagues, who holds a batting average of .265 at Class A Greenville. Lugo has showcased versatility in the field, playing multiple positions including first base and outfield, adding depth to the Twins' roster as they seek to improve their performance.