Nationals trade Curtis Mead to Red Sox; trade season begins

The Washington Nationals traded third baseman Curtis Mead to the Boston Red Sox for left-handed pitcher Connelly Early, marking the first significant trade of the season. Reactions to the deal vary, with analysts from Yahoo Sports and The Athletic giving differing grades for both teams' benefits. The trade comes as speculation mounts regarding other potential moves, particularly involving Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams and the Padres' closer Mason Miller. Meanwhile, the Marlins continue to struggle, losing their 12th consecutive game, leading to questions about whether they will become sellers as the trade deadline approaches.

• 12:00 PMYahoo Sports — MLB News Outside The Confines: Trade season kicks off