MLB trade rumors: Boston Red Sox could sign $5.8 million Minnesota Twins pitcher to improve title odds with strong rotation

The Boston Red Sox are expected to be one of the most active teams this offseason as they look to strengthen their rotation and build on last year’s playoff appearance. After successful moves like trading for Garrett Crochet and signing Aroldis Chapman, Boston proved it’s willing to make aggressive decisions to compete at the highest level.

Those additions helped propel the team into the postseason, though their run ended at the hands of their longtime rivals, the New York Yankees.Now, with 2026 in sight, the Boston Red Sox are eyeing another major upgrade to keep pace in a competitive American League. One intriguing possibility involves Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan - a 2025 All-Star - whose name has resurfaced in trade discussions. If Boston wants to turn from a playoff team into a true World Series contender, a move for Ryan could be the next big step forward.Their moves last year paid dividends, pushing the Boston Red Sox into the playoffs before being eliminated by the New York Yankees. Now, with ambitions of taking the next step toward a World Series run, Boston may need to revisit a familiar name from the trade deadline talks.

Revisiting Joe Ryan as a Trade Target

Back in July, Boston showed strong interest in Joe Ryan but failed to reach an agreement with the Twins. Now, with the offseason in full swing, that conversation could reignite.

MLBTradeRumors.com’s Steve Adams recently ranked Ryan as the No. 2 player most likely to be traded this offseason, noting that “The Red Sox were strongly interested in Ryan at the deadline but reportedly didn’t want to part with a major league outfielder like Jarren Duran or Wilyer Abreu in those talks.

” (H/t: Sporting News)That hesitation might no longer be an option. With Boston’s front office eyeing a legitimate push in 2026, parting ways with a top-5 prospect - or perhaps even more - could be the necessary price for an arm like Ryan’s.

Joe Ryan’s 2025 Season Performance

Joe Ryan had an impressive 2025 season that boosted his trade stock significantly. The 28-year-old right-hander earned his first career All-Star selection while proving to be one of the more reliable starters in the American League.

Ryan’s ability to miss bats while maintaining control over long outings makes him an ideal fit for Boston’s rotation. His 3.42 ERA over 171 innings, paired with 194 strikeouts, signals the kind of consistent performance the Red Sox have lacked behind their top arms.

Trade Value and Potential Cost

Ryan’s value extends beyond his on-field results. His contract control through the 2027 season means any acquiring team, including the Boston Red Sox, would benefit from two full seasons of service before deciding on a long-term commitment. This team-friendly situation only strengthens Minnesota’s bargaining power.For Boston, landing Ryan could mean giving up one of their prized prospects, possibly someone from their top five.

With the club’s goal of solidifying itself as a World Series contender, it’s a cost that might make sense.

Key points for a potential trade scenario:

• Twins get a top-5 Red Sox prospect (possibly a position player) • Boston Red Sox receive Joe Ryan, a controllable starter through 2027 • Boston strengthens rotation depth for a deeper postseason run

Why the Move Makes Sense for Boston

If the Boston Red Sox truly want to compete with the powerhouses of the American League - such as the Yankees, Astros, and Orioles - adding another high-caliber starter like Joe Ryan could be the difference-maker.

The club has shown it’s willing to make bold moves, and this trade would be another strong statement of intent heading into 2026.Ryan’s consistency, control, and strikeout ability would bring balance to Boston’s rotation, providing much-needed reliability over the course of a long season.As TJ French reported, “The Red Sox were strongly interested in Ryan at the deadline but reportedly didn’t want to part with a major league outfielder like Jarren Duran or Wilyer Abreu in those talks.” That stance may shift as Boston aims to move from playoff hopefuls to championship contenders.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Yankees potentially eyeing to part ways with $22 million star to shake up roster prior trade deadlineIf the front office decides to pull the trigger on a trade for Ryan, it could mark one of the defining moments of the Boston Red Sox’s 2026 campaign - and a move that sets the tone for their push toward the World Series.