Red Sox Pull Off Bold Move: Acquire Pitcher Snatched by Mets in Rule 5 Draft! The Trade Everyone Is Talking About!

The Red Sox remain active in trades this week, with their latest move occurring in the Rule 5 draft.

A day after sending Alex Verdugo to the New York Yankees for three pitching prospects, Boston executed another trade on Wednesday. They sent minor-league left-hander Ryan Ammons and cash considerations to the Mets in return for Justin Slaten, who was chosen by New York from the Texas Rangers in the Rule 5 draft.

Slaten showcased a 2.87 ERA in 40 games split between Double-A Frisco and Triple-A Frisco last season. He demonstrated strong performance, limiting opponents to a .206 batting average over 59 2/3 innings. The 26-year-old earned a promotion to Triple-A Frisco on Sept. 12, where he continued his success with a 1.08 ERA in 8 1/3 innings.

Identified as a player to watch in the Rule 5 draft by Baseball America, Slaten made notable improvements in his strike-throwing in 2023, correcting the command issues from the previous season. His fastball, clocking at 95-97 mph with ride and occasional cut, pairs well with a mid-80s sweeping slider that generates significant swings and misses. Slaten’s effective cutter, ranging from 89-91 mph, serves as a bridge between his fastball and slider. He also occasionally incorporates a low-80s two-plane curveball. With improved control, experience in the upper-level minors, and high-quality pitching repertoire, Slaten is considered a valuable addition.

Baseball America previously highlighted Slaten as the most “intriguing stuff” prospect in the Arizona Fall League last month.

Following the trade, Slaten will be included in Boston’s 40-man roster, which now stands at 38 players after Wednesday’s transaction.