Curtis Mead's breakout season makes Red Sox trade look smarter than expected

Curtis Mead’s breakout season makes Red Sox trade look smarter than expected originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Last night, the Boston Red Sox decided to start their trade deadline moves early (no pun intended), by trading Connelly Early to the Washington Nationals for infielder Curtis Mead, a righty slugger that is having a breakout year. 

Some of the media believe this was an overpay by Boston, as Early had become a fan-favorite, and has proven himself as an MLB pitcher. However, this move actually might be much better than people expect.

Mead was pretty average

© Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Mead was a former top prospect in the MLB, as he was No. 33 in the top 100 for the Tampa Bay Rays, but he never really broke out for them. 

In two and a half years with Tampa Bay, Mead slashed .238/.307/.322/.629, with eight doubles, five home runs, and 20 RBI in 111 games. He then was traded at the 2025 deadline to the Chicago White Sox, where he didn’t fare any better; he slashed .240/.280/.304/.584 in 41 games. 

This season has been incredible

© Brad Mills-Imagn Images

Then, something changed this season. Mead worked on his hitting mechanics, and is now living up to the prospect he was. He’s slashing .254/.352/.500/.852 with 17 doubles, 17 home runs, and 48 RBI in 87 games.

On top of that, when put in the Red Sox offense, he is now second place on the team for multiple stats: wRC+ with a 135, .352 OBP, .505 SLG, .856 OPS, and 17 home runs. 

His swing is built for Boston, as he has a massive pull tendency, allowing for him to abuse Fenway Park’s Green Monster for doubles and home runs. He is now Boston’s best hitter right after Willson Contreras, giving the Sox two righty power hitters to lean on. 

Mead could be a star-in-the-making

© Brad Mills-Imagn Images

Another notable thing is Mead’s contract; he has four and a half years left of control, giving the Red Sox a few seasons before they even have to consider extending him. 

Mead will probably slot right in at second base, as it’s his best defensive position, and his original one. He had two DRS and OAA at second with the Rays, so it’s perfect for him. 

Hopefully, Boston finds a way to keep Anthony Seigler in the lineup as well, so the Red Sox can have their best offense possible.

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