The Los Angeles Angels are on a hot streak, winning six consecutive games. They’re now just five games behind the American League West leader and three games out of a Wild Card spot—all while missing star outfielder Mike Trout, who’s currently on the injured list.
One team ahead of them in the AL Wild Card standings is the Boston Red Sox. With a 25-26 record, Boston holds a slim lead over the 23-25 Angels. On Thursday, the two clubs completed a trade that could have a notable impact on the Red Sox, especially given their situation with Rafael Devers.
After Red Sox first baseman Triston Casas suffered a season-ending injury to his left patellar tendon, the team asked Devers—typically a third baseman and a three-time All-Star—to shift to first base. Devers declined, forcing Boston to look elsewhere for a replacement (according to MLB on Fox).
As a result, the Red Sox acquired first baseman Ryan Noda from the Angels. Noda, who had been designated for assignment and hadn’t yet played a game for Los Angeles this season, has a career 104 OPS+ across 501 at-bats.
In return, the Angels received cash considerations from Boston, per a team announcement. While Noda’s major league experience is limited, he offers depth at a position Boston currently needs to fill—especially with Devers opting to stay at third.
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