Despite having a team full of proven quality, the Boston Red Sox are in a poor position as the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches, with a 29-33 record. Following a dismal first half in which injuries, off-field issues, and poor performance characterized the year, Boston may decide to sell, and right-hander Walker Buehler is among the top players who might be on the move, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Buehler, a recent addition acquired in an aggressive offseason move, was expected to bolster a revamped rotation alongside Garrett Crochet. But the results have been mixed. He has posted a 4-3 record through June with a 4.44 ERA, 42 strikeouts, and a 1.31 WHIP. While not disastrous, those numbers fall short of the All-Star caliber player the Red Sox hoped for when they took on his $21,050,000 contract.
Walker Buehler Set for Potential Reunion
Buehler becomes a real trade chip if Boston decides to deal. Going back to the Los Angeles Dodgers, who drafted and nurtured him in the first place, could be the most sensible course of action for the pitcher.
A reunion with Buehler makes sense as the Dodgers deal with rotation instability due to injuries and depth issues. He can provide consistent innings while regaining his form in a familiar environment, where he knows how the clubhouse functions.
Meanwhile, veteran closer Aroldis Chapman is also likely to be traded. Despite Boston’s struggles, Chapman has quietly been excellent out of the bullpen, racking up nine saves with a 1.88 ERA, 32 strikeouts, and a WHIP of 1.00. His dominance from the left side remains valuable for any contender needing back-end bullpen help, and with multiple playoff hopefuls lacking a shutdown closer, Chapman could be a prime target.
Trade discussions have begun, and to commemorate the arrival of deadline season, I took a look at all 30 teams to see how they plan to operate between now and July 31. Free and unlocked at ESPN, the available players, teams’ needs and where they align: https://t.co/YqY4VDoGNM
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) June 3, 2025
Rob Refsnyder, an outfielder with an OPS 36% higher than the league average over the last two seasons, Justin Wilson, Brennan Bernardino, and Lucas Giolito are other possible Red Sox trade pieces. Buehler’s name, though, has a distinct significance. His availability might change the market, especially considering how few high-impact starting pitchers are anticipated to be available in July.
What Will the Boston Red Sox Do?
The internal situation in Boston is complicated. This club should theoretically be in the running for the playoffs. With top outfield prospect Roman Anthony vying for a spot and the team having enough depth to contemplate risky deals, including for Wilyer Abreu or Jarren Duran, they might explore retooling for 2026 if things don’t improve.
For now, Chapman is the center of attention. However, don’t be shocked if Buehler, their expensive, high-upside starter, is involved in the Red Sox’s largest trade. He could wear Dodger blue once more before the season ends.