The Boston Red Sox made a strategic move to bolster their pitching staff by acquiring veteran left-hander Steven Matz from the St. Louis Cardinals right before the MLB trade deadline. In exchange, the Red Sox parted ways with minor league first baseman Blaze Jordan, a prospect with considerable power potential. Matz, who has transitioned primarily to relief work in 2025, has demonstrated solid numbers with a 3.44 ERA and a strikeout rate of 47 over 55 innings. His ability to limit left-handed hitters to a .179 average adds depth to the Boston bullpen.

Matz brings a wealth of experience, having pitched for teams like the New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays prior to signing with the Cardinals. His best season came in 2021 when he notched 14 wins for Toronto, showcasing his potential as both a starter and reliever. The move is also notable as Blaze Jordan was previously selected by former Red Sox executive Chaim Bloom, who is now with the Cardinals and will take over as their president of baseball operations in the offseason.