2023 Red Sox Off-season Wrap (2024, Yay!)
It’s a pity so far because the Red Sox and their fans are still in the limbo period. Forget Ohtani and Yamamoto with their 1 Billion dollar combined contracts with one of them being grandfathered in after the 2026 CBA is up (deferred money rules as I’m calling it now it will change).
The Red Sox traded Urias for a bullpen arm, Verdugo for three more bullpen arms, and added Tyler O'Neil hoping his 2021 potential comes back.
The Red Sox infield and outfield starters look good. That’s not an issue. Turner and Duvall left in free agency likely not to return and the lineup still looks good. Including an open DH spot which is good for versatility. But then, there are concerns.
There are 4 guys in the rotation consisting of Chris Sale who we now label as injury prone, Brayan Bello hoping he continues to make that next step, then Kutter Crawford and Tanner Houck which many would rather have them in the bullpen. That’s the rotation so far. With that, it’s why the bullpen is always taxed. If everyone wants to blame guys like John Schreiber for six months that’s fine, but doesn’t hide the issue. Starting pitching.
At this moment there are few true options left for free agency. Let’s entertain some ideas.
SP - Jordan Montgomery / SP Blake Snell
Rumor has it his now wife is going to be working in a hospital in or near the Boston area. It makes the most sense.
Aside that, another lefty in the rotation to help out Sale would be ideal.
Which one is better? That’s honestly a take your pick. Both if this team wants to win and then have Bello and the better of Crawford or Houck fight for the #5 spot and loser heads to the bullpen.
2nd Base - Whit Merrifield / Elvis Andrus
Both 35 years old, but posted 3.0 and 4.6 WAR respectfully as they lead the whole 2nd baseman free agency class. If Valdez is not the answer, one of these two can fit the bill. Especially since this team needs another right handed bat. They are too lefty dependent.
DH - Eddie Rosario / Jorge Soler / Teoscar Hernandez
Solar not so much, but the other two can play outfield and make guys switch in and out as DH. Rotate guys in and see what they can do. Some use DH as a half rest day. Others give it to the hot hand so he can stay focused at the plate. Depth and utility helps win the race. Especially with two of them being World Series champions.
The 2024 Red Sox got work to do. Once New Years parties are over moves will be made. Only a matter of time because the pitchers and catchers will be reporting right after the Super Bowl. Some might even be there early to talk to the younger guys too.
Much to do in about a month and a half time span. Will the Red Sox make the splash? Or will they settle for mediocrity two years in a row? And if they settle, don’t buy tickets fans. Protest from this cheap ownership. They don’t deserve you. Leave the seats empty so they can learn.