The Boston Red Sox would certainly love to keep Xander Bogaerts on the team for the long run. However, the talented shortstop doesn't seem to feel valued at Fenway Park, as he's constantly turned down contract extensions.
Trevor Story's presence only complicates the picture. Chaim Bloom brought a top-notch insurance policy in the case Bogaerts leaves. But ironically, could that move be the catalyst he needs to force his way out?
Bogaerts Isn't A Lock To Stay
Bogaerts has taken team-friendly deals in the past. But he won't give the Red Sox or anybody else another discount.
He's reportedly looking at $ 30+ million per year and could opt out of his deal at the end of the season. With that in mind, the Red Sox should at least consider exploring the trade market for him, especially if they continue to struggle. Here, we list three logical destinations for him.
3. Los Angeles Angels
This season, the Los Angeles Angels are for real, and it goes way beyond Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout. The team as a whole has excelled, and it seems like Joe Maddon isn't on the hot seat anymore.
But the Halos don't want to leave anything to chance. They want to end their playoff drought, and landing Boagaets would be a massive upgrade over David Fletcher and Andrew Velazquez. The Angels are in win-now mode and won't hesitate to pull the trigger on a big move like this.
2. St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals continue to excel regardless of who's on the mound. They've been solid even without Jack Flaherty, and the one-two punch of Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado has been nothing short of spectacular.
But they have a glaring need at shortstop and a valuable prospect who could get them to solve that issue. Whether they'd be willing to part ways with Nolan Gorman to get Bogaerts is yet to be seen, but it could certainly bolster their chances to win the division over the Milwaukee Brewers.
1. Atlanta Braves
The reigning World Series champions have struggled with championship hangover this season. Even with Ronald Acuña Jr. back on the field, the Atlanta Braves have had a tough time producing offense thus far.
They could part ways with Dansby Swanson and a couple of prospects to get one of the best shortstops in the game and bring their dormant offense back to life. They'd still need to address their bullpen, but they have enough talent to put together another championship run with Bogaerts also on board.
]]>The Inquisitr
