One Of The Best Midseason Trades In Red Sox History

Nathan Eovaldi Was Exactly What Boston Was Looking For

Looking back, the trade by Dave Dombrowski to acquire right-hander Nathan Eovaldi in July 2018 was one of the best mid-season pickups in Red Sox history. Many fans had doubts about Eovaldi and whether he’d be a true difference maker. He’d prove many of those doubters wrong during his next three months in Boston. The flame-throwing righty would finish that regular season going 3-3 with a 3.33 ERA in 54 innings for the Red Sox. 

2018 Postseason Performance

But what made Eovaldi a star in Boston was his 2018 Postseason, pitching to a 1.61 ERA in 22.1 innings while helping the Red Sox win their fourth World Series title in 14 years. For many, Nate will be remembered for his gutsy performance in game six against the Dodgers. Set to become a Free Agent that winter, he ultimately put the team’s best interest over any personal gain. He earned a ton of respect from teammates and members of Red Sox Nation during that 2018 World Series run.

Nate Returns To Boston

In the end, Nate Eovaldi was rewarded for his October performances. In the winter of 2018, the Red Sox signed him to a 4-year/68 million dollar contract in free agency. While there was definitely some injury and underperformance mixed in, he was what they were looking for when they gave him that contract. Being a veteran leader, dependable arm, workhorse, and someone you could trust in a big moment. 

One of my favorite moments from Eovaldi was his Wild Game performance against the New York Yankees. You knew he would rise to the occasion, and the moment wasn’t too big for him. And low and behold, he defeated the Yankees and helped the Red Sox get within two games of the World Series in 2021.

Decision Time

With his 4-year contract set to expire after the season, the Red Sox will need to decide whether they will submit a qualifying offer. There will be some hesitation in giving Eovaldi a rotation spot next year, given their injuries during 2021. Team President Chaim Bloom could go in a million different directions with how he could build the starting staff next season. 

I don’t know if this is the end for Nathan Eovaldi in Boston, but if it is, I thank him for all he’s done in a Red Sox uniform.