What happened: Julian McWilliams reported Friday that George Springer would be open to Boston, with the Red Sox also interested. The Toronto veteran missed several weeks with a fractured toe in April and has made only one outfield appearance this season.
Why it matters: Boston entered Saturday with a 77% playoff probability and several injured players clouding its October roster. Springer's 83 postseason games offer experience beyond the club's crowded middle-infield mix.
By the numbers: Springer is batting .234/.317/.403 this season. Since June 14, he has hit .284/.344/.483 with six homers, 18 RBIs and four steals in 29 games, lifting his OPS from .720 overall to .827 during that stretch.
What to watch: Boston's deadline plan comes due Monday at 6 p.m. ET. Its injury outlook will shape whether it prioritizes a designated hitter or another infielder.