Red Sox acquire infielder Curtis Mead from Nationals in early trade deadline move
Red Sox acquire Curtis Mead
The Red Sox have made an early move ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring infielder Curtis Mead from the Nationals. In exchange, Boston sent left-handed pitcher Connelly Early to Washington. This trade marks one of the initial transactions as the trade deadline approaches.
Mead, a right-handed infielder, has been experiencing a breakout season. In 87 games, he has recorded 17 home runs, 48 RBIs, and an .852 OPS. While he primarily played third base for the Nationals, Mead also has major league experience across all four infield positions. His addition is expected to provide a needed right-handed bat with power for the Red Sox.
The move has been met with enthusiasm within the Red Sox clubhouse. Catcher Carlos Narváez highlighted the team’s current positive energy and chemistry, expressing that Mead would be welcomed immediately. Interim manager Chad Tracy also noted that the trade sends a message about the team’s intent to fill gaps and add power to their lineup.
One player potentially affected by Mead’s arrival is Caleb Durbin, who ranks third among American League third basemen in Outs Above Average. However, Tracy indicated that the current plan is for Durbin to remain at third base, with Mead primarily playing second. Durbin has communicated with Tracy and expressed his willingness to play wherever needed, stating he is excited for Mead to join the team.
Early’s departure and team outlook
The departure of Connelly Early, a left-handed pitcher, was described as bittersweet by his Red Sox teammates. Payton Tolle, a fellow left-hander, initially thought the news was artificial intelligence when he first heard about the trade. Tolle, who grew close with Early during their time in the minor leagues and shared big league experience, hopes for the best for Early in his new opportunity.
Early is currently on the injured list due to elbow inflammation. During his time with the Red Sox, he posted an 8-7 record with a 3.24 ERA in 21 regular-season starts. Narváez recalled Early’s impressive big league debut in September 2025, where he recorded 11 strikeouts in five scoreless innings against the Athletics. This performance initiated a five-start stretch for Early late in the 2025 season, which included a start in Game 3 of the AL Wild Card Series.
The trade also reflects confidence in left-handed starter Jake Bennett, whom the Red Sox acquired in December from the Nationals. Bennett has established himself as a building block for the team, holding a 2.58 ERA and a 0.94 WHIP in 10 starts. Like Early and Tolle, Bennett has five full seasons of team control remaining.
The acquisition of Mead is seen by some as a significant statement from the Red Sox front office, indicating a willingness to make substantial moves to improve the team. Narváez commented that a month ago, a major addition like this might not have been discussed, highlighting the team’s recent turnaround. The trade deadline is set for next Monday.
Other early trade deadline activity
Beyond the Red Sox and Nationals deal, other teams have also begun making moves as the trade deadline approaches. The Pirates sent right-handed pitcher José Urquidy to the White Sox in exchange for right-handed pitcher Felix Doroteo. Doroteo, a 21-year-old, has 18 innings of experience in Arizona Complex League action. Urquidy, who was recently designated for assignment by Pittsburgh, was once an unheralded prospect who gained recognition while playing for Houston.
Additionally, the Royals traded outfielder Kameron Misner to the Phillies for cash. The Athletics also acquired right-handed pitcher Scott Blewett from the Cardinals, also for cash considerations. These transactions represent some of the initial movements in the trade market as teams position themselves for the remainder of the season.
In other news, Lance McCullers Jr. was designated for assignment by Milwaukee. This move occurred after Milwaukee had traded for McCullers on July 15, involving Jadyn Fielder in the exchange. Fielder was traded for 4 2/3 innings of relief pitching.
The trade activity is expected to intensify as the deadline draws closer, with teams assessing their needs and making adjustments to their rosters. The Red Sox are scheduled to welcome Curtis Mead on Monday.
Source: nytimes.com
