The Red Sox are turning into the Miami Marlins as they deal another veteran, sending John Lackey to the Cardinals:

The Cardinals are set to acquire right-hander John Lackey from the Red Sox, reports Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com. Boston will receive right-hander Joe Kelly and outfielder/first baseman Allen Craig in the trade.

I like Joe Kelly, and think this deal is similar to one the Yankees made for Brandon McCarthy. Kelly’s BABIP is high, and his FIP is better than his ERA. He’s also 26 years old, so the Red Sox will get most of his prime. Craig, of course, is one of the great clutch hitters of the last five seasons. I also find it interesting that Adrian Gonzalez is right behind him on that list. Like Cespedes, Craig is not doing a great job of getting on base this season. He’s also seasonal age 30 next season, so the Red Sox are getting his decline. Craig, however, can step in for David Ortiz or Mike Napoli if they falter in the middle of their contracts.

Doesn’t look like the Red Sox have much pitching left to be at all competitive down the stretch.