MLB Trade Deadline: Red Sox send Connelly Early to Nationals for Curtis Mead - NBC Sports

What the report says

NBCSports.com reported that the Boston Red Sox and Washington Nationals agreed to a trade just before midnight Saturday, with Boston sending left-handed pitcher Connelly Early to Washington in exchange for infielder Curtis Mead. The report, by Eric Samulski and published July 26, 2026, said the deal marked the start of activity around the MLB trade deadline and cited ESPN’s Jeff Passan as reporting the transaction.

According to NBC Sports, Early’s value rose sharply after a strong 2025 season that included a rapid move through the upper minors, four major league starts and a postseason appearance. The article noted that his 2026 numbers have been less dominant, including a 3.44 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 23.8% strikeout rate over 91.2 innings, while also mentioning a current elbow injury. Samulski wrote that Early still has a deep pitch mix and the traits to become a durable MLB starter, but hitters have adjusted compared with his brief breakout stretch.

For Washington, the appeal is a controllable young starter who could fit with other arms such as Cade Cavalli in a longer-term rotation plan. NBC Sports framed the move as sensible for a Nationals organization with infield prospects Brady House and Yohandy Morales nearing the majors.

Boston’s return, Mead, is described as a 25-year-old infielder who had previously moved through the Phillies, Rays, White Sox and Nationals systems. NBC Sports reported he had earned a regular role with Washington and was batting .254/.352/.500 in 327 plate appearances, with 17 home runs, six steals and strong plate-discipline indicators. The trade matters because both clubs dealt young, controllable players while addressing different roster needs.