The Los Angeles Angels (as well as their supporters) probably anticipated that one of the top ten or fifteen free agents would end up in Anaheim at the end of the offseason. Rather, they have made low-cost acquisitions while ostensibly putting Arte Moreno’s pocketbook first over the summer. Given this, any hopes of acquiring Bo Bichette to perform double plays alongside Zach Neto are probably doomed. However, the team might end up benefiting from Bichette’s eventual signing.
On Wednesday, the Red Sox created news when they unexpectedly signed starting pitcher Ranger Suarez. The Red Sox’s five-year, $130 million commitment to the southpaw may have just restarted the starting pitching market, which has moved very slowly this winter. But earlier this week, there were rumors that the squad was pursuing Bichette. Perry Minasian may have another trade option since the Phillies seem to be interested in the infielder as well.
Angels could (and definitely should) try to target Kristian Campbell in a trade if Boston lands Bo Bichette
The Red Sox’s outstanding top prospects were in the major leagues all season long last year. And throughout the first month or so, Kristian Campbell appeared poised to emerge as one of baseball’s top second basemen. Through the first 31 games of the season, he was hitting.313 with the Red Sox, adding four home runs and eight doubles. To put it simply, he was among the best hitters in baseball.
Then, in a fall akin to that of young Kyren Paris of the Angels, Campbell fell back to earth, leading to his relegation to the minor leagues in June. Despite agreeing to an eight-year, $60 million contract with the team, he would spend the rest of the season in Triple-A. Despite doing well in the lower levels, Campbell was never called back up as the Red Sox advanced to the postseason.
Bichette would probably be brought in to play second or third base in Boston. There is a scenario in which both Bichette and Campbell have long-term homes in Boston since Campbell mostly fits the profile of a second baseman. However, selling Campbell might be a move to position Boston for more rapid success because they are so obviously determined to compete as soon as possible around Roman Anthony and their top rotation.
The Angels must be prepared to make an offer if the Red Sox show any indication that they are prepared to let go of the 23-year-old. Although this organization has demonstrated a preference for value deals for senior players, Campbell is not a sure certainty. Minasian and Moreno must be prepared to spend $7.5 million a season on a young, controllable talent.
