With the Texas Rangers reportedly not interested in trading for Josh Beckett (h/t Rob Bradford, weei.com), the Boston Red Sox should just hold on to the 32-year-old right-hander.
The Rangers, with their exceptionally deep and talented prospect pool, would have been an ideal trading partner for the Red Sox, who are currently in last place in the AL East. But with Texas turning their attention elsewhere, Boston might as well keep the three-time All-Star.
Even though it’s a down year for the Red Sox, they’re always one strong offseason away from returning to prominence. If they want to make more of an impact next season, they’d be smart to keep Beckett, rather than ditching a key member of their rotation just for the sake of making a move.
Sure, Beckett enraged Boston fans with his recent chicken, beer and golf escapades. And yes, his current 4.57 ERA isn’t exactly ideal. Still, let’s not forget that just one season ago he went 13-7 while posting a 2.89 ERA and striking out 175 batters.
Beckett still has plenty of quality innings left in him, and he’s too good to be included in a deal that wouldn’t bring back some major assets. The Red Sox should keep him on the roster, add to their rotation in the offseason, and look to make a strong playoff push in the 2013 season.
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