That thread was June of 2013. Bautista was in his age-32 season with 2.5 years and ~35M left on his deal, + a 14M team option for a 3rd year. He was also in his second consecutive injury-riddled season, and second season in the 135 wRC+ range.
I don't think it was egregious at all to be on the side that thought it was a good time to flip him for the #1 prospect in baseball. Wouldn't really be different from the Sox recent trades of Sale/Eaton/Quintana that have drawn praise from almost everyone.