BOSTON — As the Boston Red Sox return to Fenway Park for their initial homestand without Rafael Devers— a trade that may signify conceding defeat in a difficult season—chief baseball officer Craig Breslow insisted that’s not the intention.
In an interview with The Athletic prior to the series opener against the Toronto Blue Jays, Breslow articulated a commitment to contending in 2025, despite the team’s lackluster record of 40-42 at that juncture.
“We’ve discussed the future extensively, and at some point, that future needs to become our present,” Breslow stated. “We set our sights on competing for the division in 2025 and aiming for the playoffs. We haven’t performed to our potential, but that goal remains, and we’re not at a point where we should be looking ahead to 2026 or 2027.”
Breslow emphasized the importance of the upcoming month leading to the MLB trade deadline, stating, “There are numerous games left before the deadline, and we’re focusing on how we can enhance our team. Identifying our needs and aggressively pursuing the right players is crucial to achieving the goals discussed all offseason.”
With the trade deadline a little over a month away, Breslow has already orchestrated a major trade, sending Devers to San Francisco in exchange for pitchers Kyle Harrison and Jordan Hicks, along with two prospects. However, the Red Sox struggled afterward, going 3-6 on a disappointing West Coast trip, followed by a tough 9-0 loss to the Blue Jays in their return to Boston.
After enduring a six-game losing streak, the Red Sox find themselves eight games behind the division-leading Yankees, a situation that underscores the urgency to perform at a level indicative of postseason potential.
Breslow identified three critical areas to address: starting pitching, bullpen assistance, and additional offensive support. He remarked on the bullpen’s performance, noting that they’ve been relied upon heavily and suggested that bringing in Hicks could provide much-needed relief for already taxed pitchers.
In terms of injuries, starter Tanner Houck is on the injured list but is set to pitch soon, while Hicks is also nearing a comeback. The Red Sox’s offense has faltered without Devers, averaging just 2.8 runs per game in their last ten outings. Despite some reinforcements on the horizon, Breslow indicated that improving the lineup remains a priority going forward.
