The Boston Red Sox acquire LHP Steven Matz from the Cardinals in an August 2025 trade, sending Blaze Jordan to STL. See how this move bolsters the Sox for a playoff push.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just as the Fenway Faithful prepared for a crucial series against the Houston Astros, the Boston Red Sox front office made its biggest move of the season, acquiring veteran left-handed pitcher Steven Matz from the St. Louis Cardinals. The trade sends a clear message to the clubhouse and the rest of the American League: Boston is serious about making a deep run in October.
With one trade, the Red Sox addressed their biggest need and declared their intention to compete now.
The centerpiece of a busy Friday was the acquisition of LHP Steven Matz. In exchange for minor league infielder Blaze Jordan, the Sox add a seasoned arm to a pitching staff in need of depth for the final two months. Matz provides valuable experience and a reliable option for a team battling for a playoff spot. While parting with a prospect like Jordan, known for his power potential, is never easy, the move signals a 'win-now' mentality, prioritizing immediate major league impact over future potential.
The Matz trade wasn't the only pitching news of the day. The team also recalled RHP Cooper Criswell from Triple-A Worcester, providing an immediate fresh arm for the bullpen ahead of the Astros series. The focus on pitching depth extends to the farm system, where prospect Brian Van Belle continues to impress. Van Belle recorded five strikeouts in his latest outing for the WooSox, showing that more help could be on the way from within the organization as the season progresses.
With the roster moves finalized, all eyes turn to Fenway Park for a heavyweight matchup. The Red Sox (59-51), riding a two-game winning streak, host the formidable Houston Astros (62-47). Boston sits just five games behind the Blue Jays in the AL East, making every game from here on out critical. The Sox will need big performances from slugger Wilyer Abreu (20 HR) and catalyst Jarren Duran to counter the Astros' potent lineup, led by Jeremy Pena's blistering .322 average.
Today was a statement day for the Red Sox front office. They've given the team a veteran arm and signaled a clear commitment to winning this October. Now, the pressure shifts to the field. Can this newly reinforced squad rise to the occasion against a tough Astros team and make a real move in the AL East? Tonight at Fenway is the first test. The stretch run has officially begun.
