Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Dodgers' Betts Trade: From Criticism to World Series Glory

2/7/2026

50 11

Summary

Story summary

On February 4, 2020, the Dodgers finalized a trade with the Red Sox for Mookie Betts and David Price.
Red Sox fans criticized the deal as one of the franchise's worst, yielding returns like Verdugo and Downs.
Betts has since become a key Dodgers player, contributing to three World Series wins and earning accolades.
Jeter Downs will represent Nicaragua in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after struggling in MLB.

History

Historical Context

In 1920, the Boston Red Sox traded Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees for $100,000, a decision that initiated an 86-year championship drought for Boston, often referred to as the "Curse of the Bambino." This trade transformed the Yankees into a dominant franchise, winning 27 World Series titles, while the Red Sox struggled until their 2004 championship victory, ending the long-standing curse.

1 of 2

Story summary

On February 4, 2020, the Dodgers finalized a trade with the Red Sox for Mookie Betts and David Price.
Red Sox fans criticized the deal as one of the franchise's worst, yielding returns like Verdugo and Downs.
Betts has since become a key Dodgers player, contributing to three World Series wins and earning accolades.
Jeter Downs will represent Nicaragua in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after struggling in MLB.

1 / 2