The Boston Red Sox have openly said they are looking to shed payroll this winter, and one of the ways they could do that is by trading their most expensive player, David Price. If they do decide to move the left-hander, multiple teams apparently have interest.
More than one team has inquired about potentially trading for Price, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports. The Red Sox would likely have to attach another player to the deal or eat some of the $96 million Price is owed over the next three seasons, but they are open to the possibility.
The Boston Red Sox continue to pursue ways to shed salary, and multiple teams have targeted starter David Price, sources tell ESPN. He is owed $96 million over the next three years. Red Sox could either attach player with value or potentially pay down some of Price's remaining $.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 11, 2019
Although he finally exorcised his demons and pitched well in the postseason two years ago, Price has never really seemed like a fit in Boston. He has clashed with the local media and had a highly-publicized feud with Hall of Famer and Red Sox broadcaster Dennis Eckersley. While Price chose not to opt out of his contract before last season, that was almost certainly only about money. It’s hard to imagine he wouldn’t welcome a trade to the right team.
Price went 7-5 with a 4.28 ERA in his fourth season with the Red Sox last year. He has also battled same elbow issues, so his medical records would have to check out before he can be traded.
If the Red Sox do trade Price, that might allow them to re-sign former AL MVP Mookie Betts. Betts is scheduled to become a free agent after the 2020 season.
