The Red Sox came up short in the Juan Soto sweepstakes, with their $700 million, 15-year offer falling short of the Mets’ winning bid. However, this offseason isn’t an all-or-nothing scenario for Boston. Craig Breslow has emphasized the need to pivot effectively, with plans to strengthen the roster still in motion. Here’s how the Red Sox can seize control of the AL East even without Soto.
1. Add Teoscar Hernández for Lineup Firepower
The Red Sox have an ongoing need for a right-handed bat, and Teoscar Hernández fits the bill perfectly. Boston previously pursued Hernández but balked at offering additional years. Now, with Soto off the table, they should revisit the idea.
Hernández, 32, remains a powerful presence at the plate, slashing .272/.339/.501 last season with the Dodgers. His career .894 OPS against lefties and proven success at Fenway Park, where he boasts a .950 OPS with 14 home runs in 45 games, make him an ideal addition. Hernández can provide consistent offensive production, helping Boston compete at the top of the division.
2. Secure Jeff Hoffman to Strengthen the Bullpen
The Red Sox have already made modest bullpen improvements by signing Justin Wilson and Aroldis Chapman, but adding a dominant right-hander like Jeff Hoffman could solidify the relief corps.
Hoffman excelled during his two years with the Phillies, posting a 2.28 ERA and 0.944 WHIP across 122 appearances. Though there’s talk of him potentially transitioning to a starter role, Boston should focus on his reliability as a high-leverage reliever. With Philadelphia’s recent bullpen additions, Boston has an opportunity to swoop in and finalize a deal with Hoffman, further bolstering their pitching staff.
3. Target Max Fried or Roki Sasaki for an Ace Starter
The Red Sox’s need for a top-tier starter is paramount, and Max Fried or Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki could be game-changers.
Fried, a rumored Boston target, is one of the most sought-after free agents, and the Red Sox are expected to compete with the Yankees for his signature. Meanwhile, Sasaki’s availability presents a unique opportunity. As his signing would only require international pool money, he offers incredible value for his ace-level potential.
If Boston secures either pitcher, they would gain a rotation leader to pair with Tanner Houck, potentially transforming their pitching staff into one of the strongest in the league.
4. Explore a Trade for Luis Castillo
If free agency options fall through, trading for Mariners ace Luis Castillo could be a viable path. Castillo, signed through 2028 at a reasonable $24.15 million annually, has been consistently reliable, posting a 3.43 ERA over 2.5 seasons in Seattle.
Boston’s improved pitching development under Andrew Bailey could further elevate Castillo’s effectiveness, particularly his sinker, splitter, and slider. The Mariners, needing offensive reinforcements, might consider a trade involving players like Masataka Yoshida or Wilyer Abreu, giving Boston a chance to bolster its rotation significantly.
Conclusion
Though Soto’s absence is disappointing, the Red Sox still have multiple paths to contend in 2024. Adding Hernández, Hoffman, and a marquee starter like Fried or Sasaki—or trading for Castillo—could reshape Boston’s roster and position them to overtake the Yankees in the AL East.
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