The Boston Red Sox adding JD Martinez does not necessarily mean that they will be trading Jackie Bradley Jr.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported on Monday night that Boston is unlikely to trade Bradley Jr.:
Jackie Bradley Jr. is unlikely to be traded following the J.D. Martinez signing, sources say. #RedSox are inclined to preserve their offensive depth. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) February 20, 2018
Signing Martinez gives Boston a crowd at DH and outfield.
They have Andrew Benintendi in left, Bradley Jr. in center, and Mookie Betts in right. Martinez played left field during his time in Houston, but he has been a right fielder the past three seasons. He is expected to serve as Boston’s DH, with Hanley Ramirez moving to first base. The team also has Mitch Moreland, who can play first and DH, so they have plenty of depth.
Perhaps the Red Sox will want to hang onto all their players in case of injuries, or maybe they’ll make a trade if they see a good opportunity. For now, it does not sound like Bradley will be the odd man out.
