Red Sox chief baseball officer outlines trade deadline moves and roster plans

Boston’s chief baseball officer Craig Breslow held a press conference after the trade deadline to explain the club’s recent transactions and upcoming roster strategy. The Red Sox acquired catcher Adley Rutschman from Baltimore, sending catcher Carlos Narvaez and several prospects, including top pitching prospects Anthony Eyanson and Kyson Witherspoon, to the Orioles. Breslow said the move was “uncomfortable” but necessary to improve the team’s outlook, adding that Rutschman is a “proven star” who offers defensive value, a switch-hitting bat and on-base skills that suit Fenway Park.

Rutschman, who is recovering from wrist inflammation, will not appear in Boston’s next series against the White Sox. Breslow declined to set a timetable for his return, noting that the player feels “optimistic” and that catcher Connor Wong will handle most duties in the short term.

The Red Sox also traded 23-year-old shortstop Marcelo Mayer, a former top-five prospect, to the San Francisco Giants for left-handed reliever Erik Miller. Breslow praised Mayer’s talent and said the trade reflects the organization’s depth at shortstop. Miller, who posted a 2.76 ERA with the Giants, is expected to bolster Boston’s bullpen as it heads into the postseason.

Finally, Breslow addressed the development of 20-year-old shortstop Franklin Arias, who is performing well at Triple-A Worcester. While he cautioned against placing high expectations on the young player, he highlighted Arias’s ability to meet challenges and indicated the club will continue to monitor his progress for a potential major-league role.