Should the Red Sox Trade for a Proven Closer? Padres’ Robert Suarez Could Be an Option
The Boston Red Sox have plenty to look forward to this season, but one big question remains: Who will close out games?
Heading into spring training, Liam Hendriks seemed like the favorite for the job, with Aroldis Chapman and Justin Slaten also in the mix. But so far, only Slaten has looked reliable. Hendriks has struggled, and Chapman hasn’t done enough to lock down the role.
With Boston aiming for a serious playoff push, could they make a last-minute trade for a more dependable closer? One MLB writer thinks they should.
A Bold Trade Proposal
FanSided’s Zach Pressnell recently suggested a trade idea that would bring San Diego Padres closer Robert Suarez to Boston. The 33-year-old All-Star is in the third year of a five-year, $46 million contract, but he has an opt-out after this season.
In exchange, the Red Sox would send three prospects—Yoeilin Cespedes, Miguel Bleis, and Hunter Dobbins—to San Diego.
“While this could seem like an overpay on the surface, it’s important to realize the Padres hold all the leverage here,” Pressnell wrote. “Boston desperately needs a closer, and the Padres don’t have to trade Suarez. It would take a haul to bring him to Boston, and the Red Sox can afford to give this package of prospects up.”
Is Suarez Worth the Price?
Adding Suarez would certainly strengthen the Red Sox bullpen, but is he the right answer? His late-season struggles in 2023 are a concern—he posted a 5.66 ERA over his final 21 appearances. At 34 years old, there’s also no guarantee he’ll perform better than Slaten or another young arm Boston already has.
Another key factor is his contract. If Suarez pitches well in 2024, he will likely opt out of his deal, meaning the Red Sox could be right back where they started—searching for a closer next offseason. On the other hand, if he struggles, Boston will have traded away valuable prospects for minimal return.
Should the Red Sox Make the Move?
The Red Sox still have time to evaluate their bullpen. If Hendriks, Chapman, or Slaten steps up, a trade won’t be necessary. However, if the team reaches the trade deadline and still lacks a reliable ninth-inning arm, acquiring Suarez could make sense.
For now, Boston should hold off on making a move—unless they’re absolutely sure Suarez is the missing piece to their playoff puzzle.