What happened: Boston sent left-hander Connelly Early to Washington for infielder Curtis Mead three days before the 2026 deadline. Mead debuted batting second and playing second base at Sacramento against the Athletics, drew a walk in his first at-bat, then exited in the fourth against Jack Perkins.

Why it matters: The move followed a 15-game win streak that pushed Boston into buy mode with second base a need. Mead offered power with improving patience and a low strikeout rate, while Early was out with elbow inflammation from a crowded rotation. The quick injury turned a bold buy into a cautionary note alongside past deadlines involving Steven Matz, Dustin May and Kyle Schwarber.

What to watch: Boston enters 2027 still sorting second base and the cost of moving controllable pitching.