Overview
- The Red Sox sent left-hander Connelly Early to the Washington Nationals in a one‑for‑one swap for infielder Curtis Mead, a deal announced Saturday.
- Early has not pitched since June 30 and was on the injured list with left elbow inflammation when Boston traded him.
- Boston cleared a roster spot by optioning Tsung‑Che Cheng to Triple‑A Worcester and expects Mead to slot at third base and debut for the team in the next game.
- Club officials called the trade difficult and emotionally charged but framed it as a need‑driven move to add right‑handed power to a lineup that flipped Boston’s deadline posture after a long winning run.
- The deal opens broader deadline activity: Nationals are reportedly willing to listen on shortstop CJ Abrams and teams continue to prioritize controllable pitchers and late‑inning arms as the Aug. 3 non‑waiver deadline approaches.