Red Sox Swing Trade For Coveted Angels' Pitcher

The Boston Red Sox have made a significant move to bolster their bullpen at the MLB trade deadline by acquiring coveted right-handed pitcher Luis Garcia from the Los Angeles Angels. 

Garcia, 37, has been a standout this season, posting a 5-1 record with four saves and a 3.71 ERA over 43.2 innings across 45 appearances. 

Luis Garcia has allowed only 2 earned runs in the last 6+ weeks.

Sureeeeee https://t.co/DHIw00IgAp

— Big Sox Guy (@BigSoxGuy) July 30, 2024

Known for his high ground ball rate and impressive fastball velocity, Garcia has particularly shone recently, recording a 0.71 ERA in his last 11 outings. 

In exchange for Garcia, the Red Sox sent four minor league players to the Angels: outfielder Matthew Lugo (BOS #17 prospect), first baseman Niko Kavadas, and right-handed pitchers Ryan Zeferjahn and Yeferson Vargas.

The team has also brought in relievers Lucas Sims and Yohan Ramirez this week, addressing critical gaps caused by injuries to key relievers such as Chris Martin, Justin Slaten, and closer Liam Hendriks. 

Luis Garcia is my favorite add of the deadline by the Red Sox #DirtyWater

RHRP with a FF/Si/SL/SW/FS mix with 6.7” of ext.

SL/SW/FS have a combined 45.1% whiff% rate.

Big GB generator (51.2%)

1.15 ERA since 6/15, 1 ER in 9.2 innings of high leverage situations. pic.twitter.com/Scs8xNoBzx

— Pat (@PatSullivan05) July 30, 2024

Garcia's veteran experience and recent performance are expected to provide a significant boost to the Red Sox's relief corps, enhancing their depth and reliability as they sit just one game out of the final wild-card spot in the American League.

In addition to the bullpen reinforcements, the Red Sox have also acquired starting pitcher James Paxton and catcher Danny Jansen before the trade deadline.

Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports