Red Sox Could Cut Payroll By Dealing Mookie Betts & David Price To Dodgers [Rumor]

Just over a year after playing instrumental roles in guiding the Boston Red Sox to a 2018 World Series championship, both David Price and Mookie Betts could find themselves in new uniforms.

According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Los Angeles Dodgers have had "frequent" talks with the Red Sox about acquiring Betts. The defending NL West Champions have also been in talks with the Cleveland Indians about acquiring Lindor, but the Dodgers won't give up Gavin Lux in a deal, per Morosi.

Morosi outlined that LA's trade talks with the Red Sox have been "more dynamic" compared to discussions with the Indians. Morosi suggested that Price could also be traded along with Betts, since the Dodgers want another starting pitcher.

Red Sox ownership has emphasized the desire to cut back on payroll so that they don't have to pay the luxury tax again. Trading Betts - who's slated for free agency after the 2020 season - and the final $96 million of Price's contract would help Boston achieve that goal.

Under team president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, the Dodgers have often stayed away from marquee free agent signings and blockbuster trades for players carrying expensive salaries. But as Morosi noted, the Dodgers don't have too much money committed in the long-term future.

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The Red Sox would surely have to eat up a large portion of Price's remaining dollars, but if it means getting of the $96 million off their hands, it may be worthwhile.

Price is 34 years of age, and he's no longer an All-Star pitcher. He's been slowed by injuries in recent seasons, and his lackluster performance in the postseason leaves a lot to be desired.

But the Dodgers' championship window is wide open, and adding the likes of Betts and Price would certainly make them that much more formidable. We'll find out soon enough if the Red Sox wind up making a deal with the team that they ousted in the World Series just 14 months ago.

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