Red Sox are ‘deep in talks’ with Dodgers for Mookie Betts trade

Mookie Betts is going, going, and might soon be gone.

The Red Sox “are deep into talks” with the Dodgers about a trade for the 2018 AL MVP, ESPN reported Thursday.

The clubs are discussing different trade formats, according to the report, including potentially adding David Price to the deal. The Dodgers have major league-ready pieces to offer in outfielder Alex Verdugo and pitchers Dustin May or Tony Gonsolin, in addition to options from a deep farm system.

The Red Sox have also talked with the Padres about a deal for Betts, per the Boston Globe, which could net them the better prospect in catcher Luis Campusano, plus some mix of a major league-ready outfielder (Manuel Margot or Josh Naylor) and pitcher (Joey Lucchesi or Cal Quantrill). The Red Sox might also have to take on Padres outfielder Wil Myers (three years, $61 million) to help offset the money.

There is some incentive for the Red Sox to finalize a trade for Betts before spring training begins — pitchers and catchers report on Feb. 11 — so that it’s not hanging over the team’s head, ESPN and the Globe reported.

Red Sox owner John Henry has said they are hoping to cut payroll to get under the luxury tax threshold of $208 million. Unloading Betts’ contract (one year left at $27 million) is the easiest way to do that, even if it costs them one of the best players in baseball.

The Red Sox made some efforts to keep Betts, offering him a 10-year, $300 million deal last spring, according to WEEI’s Lou Merloni. Betts’ side reportedly countered with a 12-year, $420 million deal.