Wed Dec 25 11:20:00 UTC 2024: **Red Sox Acquire Lefty Moran from Twins in Christmas Eve Trade**
**Boston, MA – December 24, 2024** – The Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins completed a trade on Christmas Eve, sending catcher/first baseman Mickey Gasper to Minnesota in exchange for left-handed pitcher Jovani Moran. The deal, first reported by Hunter Noll of Beyond The Monster, was officially announced by both teams.
Moran, 27, underwent Tommy John surgery last offseason and missed the entire 2024 season rehabbing. He will now continue his recovery with the Red Sox organization. While his 2023 season was cut short by a forearm strain, Moran showed promise in 2022 with a 2.21 ERA in 40 2/3 innings for Minnesota, highlighted by a strong strikeout rate. However, his control has been a persistent issue throughout his career. The Red Sox view Moran as a depth addition to their bullpen, with his availability for Opening Day uncertain.
Gasper, acquired by the Red Sox in the minor league phase of the 2023 Rule 5 draft, appeared in 13 games for Boston this season but recorded no hits in 23 plate appearances. A versatile player capable of playing catcher, first base, and other positions, Gasper’s switch-hitting bat and strong minor league numbers (.275/.392/.449 with 48 home runs in 1600 plate appearances) make him a potential utility player for the Twins. He could compete for a bench role, potentially backing up Ryan Jeffers.
The trade frees up a spot on the Red Sox 40-man roster for pitcher Walker Buehler. The move is considered a low-risk, high-reward acquisition for Boston, adding depth to their pitching staff while Minnesota gains a versatile player for their bench.
First Piper 