Craig Breslow, the Red Sox’s chief baseball officer, and his staff will have an interesting path before the MLB trade deadline, but they are certain they will have an experienced hand up top.
Epstein joined Fenway Sports Group this year as a senior consultant and part-owner. The old Boston general manager’s responsibilities extended beyond the Red Sox to all FSG companies. However, it’s difficult to blame supporters for asking how involved the three-time World Series champion is in day-to-day operations.
Breslow and Epstein collaborated in the Chicago Cubs’ front office and acknowledged Epstein’s positive influence.
“Theo is obviously a great resource with respect to approaching a deadline, to the numerous considerations that need to be factored in here, to providing me insight sometimes in terms of day-to-day minutia and often just kind of big picture,” Breslow told NESN’s Tom Caron and The Boston Globe’s Alex Speier on the “310 To Left” podcast. “Obviously a guy with a tremendous track record of achievement in this sport and in this city. But, in terms of my connection and communication with ownership, I try to be as proactive as possible by outlining how I’m thinking about this and the many ways that we may take.
“Look, there aren’t many paths here. There are three options: add to the team, trade away from it, or do nothing. I’m adamant about choosing a lane and will remain so. However, ownership is highly engaged. Our daily contacts are often centered on the team, the game, and the festivities. But John Henry, Mike Gordon, Sam Kennedy, and Theo are watching every pitch. We’re talking about Kutter Crawford’s efficiency, and Rafael Devers’ ability to hit a ball a foot and a half outside 420 feet in New York. I believe they are enjoying this successful run as much as we are.”
Breslow left his options open weeks before the trade deadline, but it appeared that the Boston executive hinted at his planned moves for the team. Kennedy also suggested a clear goal for the Red Sox.
The front management has until July 30 to make deals, and Breslow may take inspiration from Epstein to make an important trade that might aid the club’s postseason push.
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