Red Sox Have Reported Interest In Acquiring Twins Closer

The Boston Red Sox got a bit of a scare last weekend when All-Star relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman was removed early after walking two batters during the eighth inning of an eventual 4-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Speaking to reporters after the game, Chapman provided an encouraging update, stating that his removal from the game was for precautionary reasons due to a back spasm.

With the Red Sox awaiting the eventual return of injured high-leverage relief pitchers such as Justin Slaten and Liam Hendriks, it appeared more likely that the team would bypass the crowded market for bullpen help at the trade deadline and focus its attention and resources on acquiring a first baseman and a starting pitcher.

That said, according to a social media post from the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, the Red Sox are reported to be one of a handful of teams interested in making a trade to acquire Minnesota Twins closer Jhoan Durán.

“Phillies and Red Sox are among many teams prominently in on Jhoan Durán. The Yankees, Mets, Mariners and others are also in the mix,” said Heyman.

Durán has become an intriguing name to watch as the deadline moves closer after Emmanuel Clase was placed on non-disciplinary paid leave by Major League Baseball through August 31 as part of an ongoing investigation into sports betting.

In 49 appearances this season, the hard-throwing right-hander has converted 16 saves with 53 strikeouts and a 2.01 ERA in 49 1/3 innings. Under team control for two more seasons, acquiring Durán will likely cost interested teams a couple of top prospects at a minimum.

With the Red Sox and Twins finishing a three-game series in Minnesota on Wednesday, it will be interesting if the two teams can reach a deal before the team returns to Boston. In addition to Durán, the Red Sox are one of a handful of teams with known interest in dealing for Twins’ starting pitcher Joe Ryan.