Elephant Rumblings: Red Sox linked to Aledmys Diaz

Happy Wednesday, Athletics Nation!

I got the impression most of you were unimpressed with the signing of veteran infielder Aledmys Diaz last offseason. Two years and $14 million didn’t sound like a bargain for a 32-year-old replacement level infielder, and the deal hasn’t aged well since then, as Diaz has performed abysmally at the plate this season. Through 179 plate appearances, he is slashing a mere .212/.268/.291.

Diaz has hit better in June, however, and with the trade deadline approaching, contending clubs might inquire on the former rookie All-Star’s availability. Apparently, the Boston Red Sox have been linked to Diaz according to Mass Live’s Sean McAdams. Could the Bosox be the first to come courting? Ali Thanawalla at NBC Sports Bay Area expanded a bit on the possibility of a Diaz trade.

The Red Sox are in last place in the AL East, but still four games over .500. The postseason isn’t out of reach for the Sox, who could use some extra middle infield depth and playoff experience. Diaz went to the playoffs each of the past four seasons with the Astros, appearing in 32 games and three World Series.

Diaz wouldn’t command a huge return, but he currently draws more than ten percent of the A’s paltry payroll, so the A’s could flip him for a lottery ticket and savings that would free up some budget to consider other options.

I’d say, “go for it.” Moving Diaz along won’t likely cost the A’s many W’s, and the A’s won’t get the slightest whiff of the postseason this year, anyway. Such a move could free up more playing time for prospects like Nick Allen and Kevin Smith, if they can earn the opportunity.

What do you think? Sound off below!

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• Thanawalla: Report: A’s infielder Diaz drawing Red Sox trade interest
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