I wouldn't trade either Mayer or Casas for just about anyone... except maybe a bonafide #1 ace starter like Alcantara. But Brian Reynolds -- the below-average outfielder we saw last week in Fenway drop a flyball using two hands?
Duvall may go down in lore as a Red Sox legend, because we only saw him on a hot streak. But would replacing Duvall -- whose injury may ruin his season or career, no matter when they say he'll be back -- really make the difference in building a sustained contender?
Don't forget, even though Bloom didn't resign Rich Hill, he still assembled the oldest pitching staff in the AL this season. Old starters will inevitably break down, which will limit innings with rehabbers and lead to the inevitable bullpen burnout. Btw, Boston also boasts the second-oldest batting line-up, right behind the Stankees. The Rays have the youngest in the majors.
When Tampa acquire players, they usually target pre-prime timers. Never mind Arozarena, who cost a top-20 draft pick, but think Boston couldn't use Harold Ramirez or Isaac Paredes or Jose Siri right now?