Red Sox pivot to buy mode as late-season surge fuels deadline chatter

Boston flipped from buyer’s worst to potential playoff contender after a brutal start, climbing to 52-49 and into a Wild Card spot thanks to a 20-3 run and a 15-game win streak. With the trade deadline approaching, they’ve shifted from being sellers to clear buyers, but infield questions persist (Story’s absence, Mayer’s IL, Kiner-Falefa’s injury), and they’re also seeking a catcher, a right-handed bat, rotation depth, and bullpen help; first base has been productive thanks to Willson Contreras, but overall upgrades are on the menu as they chase a playoff run.