MLB Trade Rumors: Could Boston Red Sox Trade Jake Peavy, Will Middlebrooks for Youth, Money?

The Boston Red Sox will be facing major decisions during the season as they try to manage finances and add more firepower both on the mound and at the plate in their attempt to repeat as World Series champions.

With a roster filled with All-Stars and gutsy veterans, the Red Sox are stacked with enough talent to defend their World Series title. However, the Red Sox need to consider their finances and potential injuries if they want to keep on track to repeating as champions, according to Rant Sports analyst Michael LeDuc.

These issues could prompt the Red Sox front office to make some moves before the mid-season trade deadline. Luckily as LeDuc points out, the Red Sox have several solid options on the trading front.

Starting Pitcher Jake Peavy

The Red Sox could use Peavy's strong arm and experience for the rest of the season, but the 32-year-old's expiring contract should necessitate getting solid compensation in return before he hits free agency later this year.

Peavy won his first World Series title with Boston after he was traded by the Chicago White Sox in a deadline deal last season. Apparently, he is a candidate to be moved again, unless he proves to be an integral part of the rotation in the absence of Jon Lester.

"It may be best to ride Peavy the rest of the season until his contract expires. However, it would be smart to explore a trade to get something in return before he leaves next season. Every team could use another starter, and Peavy's services may be wanted again at the deadline. Again, it may be better to keep him in Boston for the remainder of 2014, but anything can happen," LeDuc stated.

Third Baseman Will Middlebrooks

Will Middlebrooks is a 30-homer-per-season weapon for the Red Sox. However, injuries have prevented him from reaching his full potential. With Garin Cecchini emerging as the future of the franchise at third base, it's safe to assume Middlebrooks could be on the move.

"But if the Sox feel Garin Cecchini is the future at third base, Middlebrooks could be a valuable trade chip. Boston could get a quality player in return for him," LeDoc wrote.

Aside from Middlebrooks and Peavy, Boston can also pull off trades involving Mike Carp, Felix Doubront and Daniel Nava. This triumvirate provides solid stats for the Red Sox, but dealing them to another team could give Boston more in exchange.