Red Sox Listed As Top Candidate For Braves’ $160 Million Star Pitcher

The Boston Red Sox are making a strong push to bolster their pitching staff this offseason. While their lineup was competitive last season, their rotation struggled in critical moments. Though Boston also aims to strengthen its lineup, the most pressing needs lie in the starting rotation and bullpen.

Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer ranked the top 10 potential landing spots for Atlanta Braves ace Max Fried, placing the Red Sox at No. 2, though he noted they could easily emerge as the frontrunner. Rymer highlighted Boston’s long-standing struggles with starting pitching, saying, “Breslow made progress early in 2024, but the latter half of the season showed how difficult it is to achieve lasting success without adding elite talent. Fried fits that bill perfectly.”

The Red Sox have both the financial resources and aggressive approach necessary to pursue Fried, offering him the chance to join a team with legitimate World Series aspirations. Additionally, Boston has a unique advantage: Fried was high school teammates with current Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito and free agent Jack Flaherty. Reuniting the trio could be a persuasive factor if Boston secures the funds to make it happen.