Boston Red Sox: 3 Players Named Trade Candidates by ESPN's Jeff Passan

ESPN insider Jeff Passan has identified three Boston Red Sox players as potential trade chips before the deadline. The Red Sox, sitting 10th in the American League with a 42-48 record, are on a W5 streak after a 5-0 win over the Chicago White Sox on July 8. That hot stretch hasn't changed the front office's calculus — they're still listening.

Who are the three trade candidates?

Passan didn't hold back. He named right-hander Nick Pivetta, outfielder Tyler O'Neill, and veteran closer Kenley Jansen as the most likely Red Sox to be moved. All three are on expiring contracts, making them logical rentals for contenders.

Pivetta, 31, has a 4.18 ERA over 18 starts this season. He's been inconsistent but flashes swing-and-miss stuff. A team needing back-end rotation help could bite.

O'Neill, 29, has crushed 16 home runs in 72 games. His power is real. But he's also struck out 87 times and missed time with leg injuries. That risk-reward profile makes him a classic deadline wild card.

Jansen, 36, has saved 18 games with a 2.95 ERA. He's still throwing his cutter at 93 mph. Contenders always need bullpen help, and Jansen has 436 career saves.

Why are the Red Sox selling?

Boston's record tells the story. At 42-48, they're 10th in the AL and 8.5 games back of a wild-card spot. The five-game winning streak is nice, but it's too little, too late for a team that dug a deep hole in May and June.

Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has been clear: the organization is prioritizing the future. Moving veterans on expiring deals for prospects fits that plan. The Red Sox farm system is already top-10 in baseball, and these trades could push it higher.

What could the Red Sox get in return?

Pivetta might bring a mid-tier prospect — think a top-15 organizational arm. O'Neill could fetch a lottery ticket or a young reliever. Jansen is the biggest prize: a proven closer with postseason experience. A team like the Phillies or Orioles might surrender a top-10 prospect for him.

Passan noted that Boston isn't looking to dump salary. They want young talent. Every deal will be measured by how it improves the 2027 and 2028 rosters.

What happens next?

The trade deadline is July 30. Expect Breslow to be active. The Red Sox have already made one small move, sending reliever Brennan Bernardino to the Mets for a low-A infielder. More are coming.

Pivetta starts Saturday against the Royals. That could be his last home start in a Red Sox uniform. O'Neill is in left field almost every night. Jansen keeps closing. But for how long?

Boston's front office is listening. And with three clear trade candidates, the next three weeks will shape the franchise's direction for years.