The Boston Red Sox have already traded away one key player in Rafael Devers. They could cut ties with an elite pitcher if they fall out of contention.

Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow acknowledged on a conference call Sunday night that the deal leaves a hole in the lineup, but he hoped it would pay off this season. Although there is a newly created need for a power hitter, the team now has roster and payroll flexibility to add players at the trade deadline, he said.

The Boston Red Sox traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants on Sunday night. The move yielded them two big league pitchers and two prospects.