Red Sox Player Wants Long-Term Extension, But Does The Team?

The Boston Red Sox are at a bit of a crossroads. Does this team have what it takes to get over the hump, or do they look to change things up at the trade deadline? 

The BoSox are 39-35, but still in last place in the super-competitive AL East. They'll have some decisions to make come the August 1st deadline, in particular, on impending free agents. But one player they do not have to be in any rush to deal with is Alex Verdugo. 

The 27-year-old still has another year of arbitration before becoming eligible for free agency in 2025. But Verdugo, having a career-year, says he's all-in on staying in Boston for the long haul, and he told Alex Speier of the Boston Globe that he would be open to signing an extension. 

I’m all ears. I do love Boston. I’ve been saying it for many years. I’ve really been able to come into my own in this organization. I like it a lot.

Thus far, the Red Sox have not broached the subject, however, with Verdugo, and as mentioned, there's no urgency to it on their part. “However they and we want to handle it, that’s how it happens,” said the outfielder. “All in good time. It will happen when it happens.” 

Verdugo has an OPS+ of 125, with a league-leading 24 doubles to go with his .301 average and .836 OPS this season. It's his 4th year in Boston, and his numbers overall in Beantown have been impressive. A .290 average, .348 on-base and .780 OPS. 

Photo: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports