The Boston Red Sox have reportedly agreed to trade Jon Lester and Jonny Gomes to the Oakland Athletics for Yoenis Cespedes. The move was first reported by WEEI.com’s Alex Speier.
The Red Sox made it clear in recent weeks that they were looking to move Lester, as they are obviously not prepared to pay the lefthander the amount of money he will command on the open market. Boston made an offer of four years and $70 million over the offseason, which was borderline laughable. Lester has thrown over 200 innings in six of his last seven seasons and has proven that he can pitch effectively in the postseason. He’ll likely sign a deal worth somewhere in the six-year, $150 million range.
Boston was initially said to be looking for two top-tier prospects in return for Lester, but the Sox must feel that Cespedes fills a need more immediately. The 28-year-old will provide some middle-of-the-order pop that the Red Sox have been lacking this season. Cespedes is owed $10.5 million in 2015 before he becomes a free agent.
As for the A’s, some of the best pitching in the league just got better. Lester and his 10-7 record and 2.52 ERA will join a staff that is in the top five in the league in most pitching categories. Pitching wins in the playoffs. The A’s, who have the best record in baseball, now have plenty of it.
