The Red Sox are reportedly “lurking” in this blockbuster trade market

Even without Blake Snell, there are still several ways for the Red Sox to improve their starting rotation.

Boston could pursue one of the remaining free agent aces like Corbin Burnes or Max Fried. And for what it’s worth, the Red Sox are reportedly one of the two finalists for the star southpaw’s services.

But is there a chance that Craig Breslow and Co. will go the trade route to acquire a front-line starter?

The target in this scenario would almost certainly be Garrett Crochet, who was reportedly made available by the Chicago White Sox. It would probably take a lot to lure Crochet away from the Southsiders, but he’s only 25 years old and currently has a very team-friendly contract.

USA Today’s Bob Nightengale shared the latest on the Crochet situation on Sunday, and the MLB insider revealed that the Red Sox are “lurking” in the market. Boston may not be the most likely potential destination, however, as Nightengale reported that the White Sox have had “serious” discussions with the Philadelphia Phillies about Crochet, who is also drawing interest from the San Diego Padres.

Of course, the Red Sox’s interest in Crochet could potentially wax or wane based on other transactions. For example, if Boston signs Juan Soto, it could turn to Crochet to “complement” the generational outfielder.

The Red Sox brothers haven’t shied away from their plan to be aggressive this offseason. In return, a potential trade of Crochet to Boston likely cannot be ruled out at this point.