Seattle Mariners Reject Trade Offers From Red Sox For Logan Gilbert

The Boston Red Sox's interest in acquiring Logan Gilbert from the Seattle Mariners reveals a strategic approach to bolster their pitching rotation.

The Mariners, known for their active offseason movements under General Manager Jerry DiPoto, initiated their winter activities by trading outfielder Jarred Kelenic to the Atlanta Braves.

This move opened a gap in their outfield, sparking speculation about acquiring a high-profile player like Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres.

If the Red Sox ended up signing Jordan Montgomery and trading for Logan Gilbert, would you be satisfied?

1. Jordan Montgomery
2. Logan Gilbert
3. Brayan Bello
4. Chris Sale
5. Kuttrr Crawford/Nick Pivetta

Montgomery and Gilbert have been workhorses. 30+ starts in 2022/2023.… pic.twitter.com/5enClMUp2M

— Tyler Milliken ⚾️ (@tylermilliken_) December 5, 2023

Amidst these developments, the Red Sox emerged as potential trade partners, eyeing Seattle’s robust starting pitching lineup, which includes Luis Castillo, George Kirby, Logan Gilbert, Bryce Miller, and Bryan Woo.

Gilbert, in particular, with a 13-7 record, a 3.73 ERA, and 190.2 innings pitched, stood out as a valuable asset for Boston, aligning with their desire for quality starting pitching.

Seattle’s young and controllable pitching talent, like Gilbert, made them an attractive target for trade discussions.

Gilbert's performance, marked by a 3.88 ERA, a 24.4% strikeout rate, and a 4.4% walk rate over 20 starts, and his contract, offering four more years of control, made him a sought-after player.

However, the Mariners' willingness to part with Gilbert hinged on acquiring a young hitter with several years of control in return.

The Red Sox’ top priority is the upgrade of their rotation. They haven’t added anyone yet this winter. Why not? And where does the market stand? https://t.co/Mb2cwKq48x via @BostonGlobe

— Alex Speier (@alexspeier) December 14, 2023

This condition set a high bar for any potential trade, considering Gilbert's crucial role in Seattle's rotation and their position in the American League Wild Card race. The Mariners' broader rotation context, with injuries affecting other key pitchers, further complicated the prospects of a Gilbert trade.

Despite these challenges, the Red Sox, led by Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow, demonstrated a readiness to leverage their assets for pitching improvements.

Breslow’s known preference for pitchers with "great stuff" made Gilbert, alongside other Mariners pitchers, an attractive target. Boston's farm system, enriched by Chaim Bloom, provided a pool of elite prospects, potentially suitable for a trade.

However, the Mariners' focus on immediate roster enhancement meant that any deal would likely require players capable of contributing to the major league team straight away. Photo Credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports