Red Sox trade a former first-round pick for Pirates pitcher

Mike Masala

Red Sox trade a former first-round pick for Pirates pitcher image

The Boston Red Sox have needed some pitching help with the deadline looming, and after acquiring James Paxton from the Los Angeles Dodgers, it seems that they've added more.

According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, the Red Sox have agreed with the Pittsburgh Pirates on a trade that will send pitcher right-handed pitcher Quinn Priester to Boston.

Priester, 23, was a Pirates' first-round selection in the 2019 MLB draft and debuted with the team in 2023.

In 10 appearances (six starts) this year, Priester has posted a 5.04 ERA (4.81 FIP) and a 1.455 WHIP while striking out 31 batters over 44 2/3 innings.

It will be interesting to see if he starts his time with the Red Sox in rotation or the bullpen, as the latter is the bigger need at the moment.

In return, Boston sent 2020 first-round pick Nick Yorke back to Pittsburgh. He's yet to make his major league debut. In 38 games in Triple-A Worcester this year, he's hit .310 with an .898 OPS, six home runs, 19 RBIs and six stolen bases.

Mike Masala

Mike Masala Photo

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala