The Boston Red Sox appear to be looking in different directions as they shape their roster for the upcoming season. According to The Athletic, a union with free agent third baseman Alex Bregman "does not seem to be a priority" for the team. Instead, the Red Sox are exploring other avenues, including a potential trade for Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado or signing a free agent outfielder like Anthony Santander or Teoscar Hernández.


Acquiring Arenado would reunite him with former Rockies teammate Trevor Story on the left side of the infield. Such a move would likely shift Rafael Devers to first base or designated hitter, potentially opening up the opportunity to trade Triston Casas. While there are some concerns about Arenado's power decline last season, the hitter-friendly environment of Fenway Park could help mitigate those issues.


Anthony Santander, who recently hit 44 home runs for the Orioles, offers a powerful switch-hitting presence that could significantly bolster the Red Sox's lineup. Meanwhile, Teoscar Hernández, coming off a strong year with the World Series champion Dodgers and with prior experience in the AL East with the Blue Jays, is another intriguing option for Boston.

In a strategic move to strengthen their catching depth, the Boston Red Sox have acquired Carlos Narvaez from the New York Yankees. The trade, which also involved sending minor league pitcher Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz and international bonus pool space to the Yankees, highlights the Red Sox's commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

Narvaez, known for his strong defensive skills and ability to control the running game, brings a valuable asset to the Red Sox. Although he has struggled with strikeouts in the minors, his impressive walk rates and power potential make him an intriguing prospect for Boston's future.

To make room for Narvaez on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated infielder Enmanuel Valdez for assignment. This move underscores the team's focus on optimizing their roster composition and ensuring they have the best possible lineup for the challenges ahead.

Alex Bregman, who has spent his entire MLB career with the Houston Astros, is one of the top free agents this offseason. According to MLB's Mark Feinsand, four teams have shown significant interest in the talented third baseman: the Astros, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, and Detroit Tigers.


The Astros have reportedly offered Bregman a six-year, $156 million deal, but he is seeking a contract closer to $200 million. Bregman's teammates, including Jose Altuve, are hopeful he will return to Houston in 2025, prompting the team to make strategic moves to accommodate his potential return.


If the Red Sox decide to sign Bregman, he would likely transition to second base, allowing Rafael Devers to remain at third base. The Yankees' interest in Bregman has intensified following Juan Soto's signing with the New York Mets. Meanwhile, the Tigers are also keen on acquiring Bregman, though his price tag may be a challenge for Detroit.

The Boston Red Sox are on the verge of finalizing a trade to acquire left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox, sources told ESPN. This strategic move leverages Boston's deep pool of prospects to secure one of the best starting pitchers available on the trade market.


As part of the deal, the Red Sox will send catcher Kyle Teel, outfielder Braden Montgomery, infielder Chase Meidroth, and right-hander Wikelman Gonzalez to the White Sox. This exchange highlights Boston's commitment to strengthening their pitching staff by adding top-tier talent.


Crochet excelled in his first season in the White Sox's rotation after transitioning from a relief role. The 25-year-old was dominant over 146 innings, striking out 209 batters while issuing only 33 walks. With a fastball that averages 97 mph, complemented by a high-end slider and an effective cutter, Crochet emerged as a frontline starter—the exact type of pitcher the Red Sox need as they look to rebound from a challenging five-year period that saw them finish last in the American League East three times.


Initial discussions between the teams explored multiple iterations of the trade, but talks accelerated after Boston's unsuccessful attempts to sign outfielder Juan Soto, left-hander Max Fried, and right-hander Nathan Eovaldi.

Crochet will join a rotation featuring right-handers Tanner Houck, Lucas Giolito, Brayan Bello, and Kutter Crawford. With his impressive track record, Crochet is likely to be considered for the Opening Day start, signaling a new era for the Red Sox pitching staff.

Right-hander Corbin Burnes entered this offseason as the top rotation option available in free agency. However, with last night's reported agreement between the Yankees and Max Fried, Burnes now stands as the only ace-level pitcher remaining on the open market. This position should strengthen Burnes' chances of exceeding MLBTR’s projected seven-year, $200 million contract.


While the Boston Red Sox reportedly made a formal offer for Burnes yesterday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com characterized the Blue Jays and Giants as the “most aggressive” teams in their pursuit of the star pitcher. Feinsand also noted that the Red Sox appear hesitant to spend at the level necessary to land Burnes.


Toronto, considered the “favorite” to sign Burnes, has been active in the free-agent market this winter. They recently agreed to terms with right-hander Yimi Garcia and traded for infielder Andres Gimenez and righty Nick Sandlin from the Guardians. These moves helped address the bullpen and infield, but the rotation remains a priority. The Jays traded lefty Yusei Kikuchi at the deadline, face the potential free agency departure of Chris Bassitt next winter, and saw Kevin Gausman regress last year. Given these needs, adding a top-of-the-rotation arm like Burnes makes sense.


Similarly, the Giants have a significant gap in their rotation after losing southpaw Blake Snell to the Dodgers. While San Francisco has been active in the upper levels of free agency in recent years, they may face financial challenges. Rumors suggest the Giants might scale back payroll this winter, making it difficult to sign Burnes. Sources told Feinsand they were skeptical about San Francisco outbidding Toronto if the Jays are determined to secure Burnes.


Interestingly, Feinsand’s report highlights the Red Sox's apparent pessimism as a suitor for Burnes. Despite their plans to be aggressive this offseason, particularly in pursuit of front-of-the-rotation arms, the Sox may be hesitant to invest heavily in Burnes. With Fried and Snell off the market, Burnes is the last clear ace available. If they miss out, the Red Sox could pursue a reunion with right-hander Nick Pivetta, though his 4.29 ERA over five seasons doesn't fit a front-of-the-rotation profile.

This offseason has seen the Boston Red Sox fall short in their pursuits of star players Juan Soto, who signed with the Mets, and Max Fried, who joined the Yankees. With these two targets off the board, the Red Sox are now turning their attention to one of the last premium free agents available: ace right-hander Corbin Burnes.


According to MassLive.com, the Red Sox made a serious bid for Fried, but their offer was significantly outpaced by the Yankees' successful $218 million deal. It remains unclear whether the Red Sox preferred Fried over Burnes, who has yet to sign. However, as of Tuesday afternoon, Boston was reportedly preparing an offer for Burnes. The star pitcher has also attracted interest from teams like the Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants, among others. With Fried now signed, Burnes could finalize his destination soon.


Burnes, 30, has been a consistent performer, finishing in the top 10 of the Cy Young balloting in each of the last five seasons. This impressive run includes winning the Cy Young Award with the Brewers in 2021 and finishing fifth in the voting last season with the Orioles. Given his track record, Burnes is expected to command a contract exceeding Fried's $218 million.


The addition of Burnes would be a significant boost for the Red Sox, who are looking to strengthen their rotation and compete more effectively in the upcoming season. As the offseason progresses, Boston fans will be eagerly awaiting news of Burnes' decision, hoping he chooses to bring his talents to Fenway Park.

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly "looking at" catcher James McCann as they intensify their efforts to secure a reliable backup catcher, according to MassLive.com. McCann, 34, recently completed a four-year contract that saw him split his time between the New York Mets and the Baltimore Orioles. In the 2024 season, McCann played 65 games, posting a .234/.279/.388 slash line (94 OPS+) and contributing 0.8 WAR.


Currently, Connor Wong is the Red Sox's primary catcher, but the team is keen on finding a dependable backup. While Wong holds the fort, the Red Sox are also eyeing the potential of 2023 first-round draft pick Kyle Teel, who made it to Triple-A for 28 games last season. Teel's presence in the pipeline promises a bright future for the Red Sox's catching position.


Adding a veteran like McCann could provide the Red Sox with much-needed depth and experience behind the plate. McCann's seasoned presence would not only offer stability but also serve as a valuable mentor to the younger catchers in the system. His experience in handling pitching staffs and his defensive skills would be an asset to the team as they strive to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.

Left-hander Max Fried is one of the top remaining free agents this offseason, and it seems his decision could be coming soon. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Fried is expected to choose his next team by Thursday. The Yankees, Red Sox, and Blue Jays are currently seen as the frontrunners in the race to sign the talented southpaw. Additionally, right-hander Corbin Burnes is attracting interest from the same three clubs, with the Giants also in the mix for Burnes, though not for Fried. The Rangers are mentioned as a potential destination for Fried, but this is considered a long shot, while the Angels, like the Giants, are not finalists for Fried.


It's perhaps not surprising that the Yankees, Red Sox, and Blue Jays, who were all finalists in the pursuit of Juan Soto, are now the leading contenders for Fried. The general expectation across the baseball world has been that teams with significant financial resources would focus on Soto until his situation was resolved. Now that Soto has signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million deal with the Mets, attention has shifted to other top free agents like Fried.


Each of these three teams is looking to make a big splash this offseason, though their motivations differ. The Yankees recently made it to the World Series but suffered a deflating five-game loss to the Dodgers, highlighting the need for improvements. They also lost last year's major acquisition, Soto, to their crosstown rivals, the Mets. The Red Sox have been reducing payroll in recent years, leading to lackluster results, but they now seem motivated to reassert themselves as major players in the market. The Blue Jays, meanwhile, have consistently performed well in the regular season from 2020 to 2023 but have faced disappointing ends to their campaigns, including narrow playoff misses and early exits. They followed up with a dismal 2024 season, finishing at the bottom of the AL East.

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As Fried's decision looms, it will be intriguing to see which team ultimately secures his services and how this move impacts the competitive landscape in the league. With the Yankees, Red Sox, and Blue Jays all vying for Fried, fans can expect an exciting conclusion to this free agency saga. Stay tuned for updates as we await Fried's final decision and the subsequent ripple effects across MLB.

Despite a challenging regular season, right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler remains a hot commodity in the free agent market. According to the Boston Globe, the Red Sox are among the teams showing interest in Buehler as they look to bolster their pitching staff this offseason.


Buehler, who spent several years with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has had a mixed performance recently due to injuries and recovery from Tommy John surgery. However, his impressive postseason performance, including ten shutout innings in the World Series, has kept him in the spotlight.


The Red Sox, determined to upgrade their rotation, have been linked to several marquee free agents this winter, including Corbin Burnes and Max Fried. Adding Buehler to their roster could be a strategic move, especially considering his potential to bounce back and contribute significantly to the team's success.


While Buehler's recent struggles are a concern, his past performance and strong finish in the playoffs make him an intriguing option for the Red Sox. If Boston decides to take a chance on him, it could be a low-risk, high-reward scenario that pays off handsomely.

The free-agent market is buzzing with interest in outfielder Anthony Santander, particularly from the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Boston Red Sox. Jon Morosi of MLB.com reports that these three teams, having recently missed out on Juan Soto, are now turning their attention to Santander.


The connection makes sense, as all three clubs are looking to strengthen their outfield after falling short in the Soto sweepstakes. Soto was the crown jewel of this winter's free-agent outfield market, towering above the rest of the available players. With Soto now off the board, teams are pivoting to other high-impact options like Santander, Teoscar Hernández, Jurickson Profar, Tyler O’Neill, and Michael Conforto. Notably, O’Neill and Conforto have already signed, leaving Santander as a prime target.


Santander, 30, may not match Soto's youth or plate discipline, but his power is undeniable. Over the past three seasons, he has consistently hit at least 28 home runs per year, including a remarkable 44 homers in the most recent campaign. This brings his total to 105 home runs from 2022-24. His .244/.317/.478 batting line over that period translates to a 124 wRC+, indicating he was 24% better than the league average. Additionally, his 8.5% walk rate is league average, while his 20.5% strikeout rate is slightly better than average.


It's no surprise that Santander is attracting significant interest given his production. His ability to switch-hit without strong platoon splits adds to his appeal. As a righty against lefties, he hit .239/.309/.513 in 2024 for a 132 wRC+. Against righties, he posted a .225/.306/.488 line for a 123 wRC+. Over his career, he has a 111 wRC+ against lefties and 116 against righties, showcasing his versatility.

With Juan Soto's record-shattering deal with the New York Mets now official, the focus of the free agent market is shifting. Among the top beneficiaries of the increased aggressiveness from teams that missed out on Soto could be third baseman Alex Bregman. According to Rob Bradford of WEEI, the Red Sox are "immediately prioritizing" a pursuit of Bregman, while USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reports that the Yankees are also expected to make a run at free agency's top infielder.


The Red Sox, who were previously reported as potential suitors for Bregman, appear to have intensified their interest following Soto's signing. Adding the 30-year-old veteran to their roster makes sense for Boston, as Bregman would provide a right-handed bat to balance their heavily left-handed lineup. Bregman boasts a career .277/.367/.494 slash line against left-handed pitchers, which would be a valuable asset for the team.


Moreover, the Red Sox have a crowded outfield, making the infield an obvious place to strengthen their lineup. While they have focused on pitching help so far this offseason, missing out on Soto may lead them to invest in Bregman instead.


The Yankees, too, are eyeing Bregman as they look to bolster their roster. With Soto off the table, Bregman represents a top-tier option to enhance their infield and overall lineup strength.


As the offseason progresses, the competition for Bregman will be fierce. Both the Red Sox and Yankees are known for their willingness to spend big to secure top talent, setting the stage for an exciting bidding war.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Max Fried, one of the top free-agent starting pitchers this offseason, is expected to sign with either the New York Yankees or the Boston Red Sox. Both of these powerhouse teams have shown strong interest in securing top-tier pitching talent and have also been linked to pursuing superstar outfielder Juan Soto.


If Soto signs elsewhere, it could set the stage for a heated bidding war between the Yankees and Red Sox for Fried's services. This dynamic suggests that the competition for Fried could become even more intense.


Fried has built an impressive resume over an eight-year career with the Atlanta Braves, including two seasons finishing in the top five of the National League Cy Young Award voting, two All-Star selections, and a World Series title in 2021. His performance since 2019 has been particularly noteworthy, with a 3.06 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP across 824 2/3 innings.


Despite his success, Fried has reportedly "priced himself out of Atlanta," according to Nightengale. Both Fried and fellow free-agent ace Corbin Burnes are expected to command contracts exceeding $200 million. This high valuation underscores the demand for elite pitching talent in the current market.


The potential signing of Fried by either the Yankees or Red Sox would significantly bolster their pitching rotations, adding a proven frontline starter capable of making a substantial impact. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on which team can secure this coveted ace.

Major League Baseball is currently considering a groundbreaking rule change known as the "golden at-bat." This new rule would allow teams to send their best hitter to the plate once per game, regardless of their place in the batting order. 


This proposal is undoubtedly unconventional and could significantly alter the dynamics of the game. As a result, it has sparked considerable debate among players and fans alike. Boston Red Sox veteran relief pitcher Liam Hendriks is one of the many voices opposing the rule. Speaking to Christopher Smith of MassLive, Hendriks expressed his disapproval, saying, "It's just a terrible idea. It's horrible. You're just changing the entire [nature] of the game. The pitch clock is what it is and other things like that, but now you're changing the whole entire nature of the game. And it's just another way to add offense. At the end of the day, everything seems to be leaning very much towards offense rather than pitching or defense or anything like that. I think what you need to do is you need to pay guys for getting base hits and high averages. When you start doing that, then all of a sudden those guys are getting on base and that's a pain in the a--."


Hendriks' comments highlight the concerns many have about the potential shift in baseball's fundamental balance between offense and defense. The "golden at-bat" rule could drastically increase scoring opportunities, fundamentally changing how teams strategize and manage games. Critics argue that it may undermine the traditional aspects of the sport, where strategic decisions about batting orders play a crucial role.


As MLB continues to explore this proposal, the league will need to weigh the potential benefits of increased excitement and fan engagement against the risk of alienating purists who value the game's traditional structure. The debate over the "golden at-bat" rule is likely to continue as the league gathers feedback from players, coaches, and fans.

By this time next week, Juan Soto could very well have chosen his new home. As the star outfielder evaluates multiple offers that reportedly exceed $600 million, the baseball world eagerly awaits his decision.

According to Alex Speier of the Boston Globe, the Red Sox have expressed interest in another meeting with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras. The objective is clear: they want Soto's camp to provide a specific price to prevent being outbid unexpectedly.

The Red Sox's primary concern appears to be the New York Mets. Speier reports that rumors suggest Mets owner Steve Cohen has promised Boras that he would outbid any other team's offer by $50 million. It's important to note that Speier neither confirms nor denies the authenticity of this rumor but indicates that the Red Sox are concerned enough to seek clarification from Soto's camp.

Whether Boras and Soto are willing to disclose a concrete figure remains uncertain. Soto benefits from leveraging the uncertainties of each team against one another. Revealing the specifics of each offer to all teams involved might lead to a highest bidder but could also limit the potential for one team to make a significantly higher bid.

So far, five teams are considered serious contenders for Soto: the Mets, Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Dodgers. Reports suggest that the Dodgers are a long shot, with insiders believing that Los Angeles entered the mix to gauge the market. Given the presence of multiple $600 million-plus offers, it seems Soto's market has materialized as expected. MLB.com's Mark Feinsand reported last night that the Dodgers are unlikely to land him.

​As the deadline approaches, the baseball world will be watching closely to see which team secures Juan Soto's signature. Will the Red Sox's attempt to gain clarity pay off, or will the Mets swoop in with an unbeatable offer? The next week promises to be pivotal in shaping the landscape of the upcoming MLB season.

Yankees outfielder Everson Pereira, infielder Jorbit Vivas, and Mets right-hander Max Kranick are eligible for a fourth option year, according to a report by Joel Sherman of the New York Post. They join Red Sox right-hander Cooper Criswell, with more players expected to be named throughout the offseason.

When a player is added to the 40-man roster, they generally have three seasons in which they can be optioned to the minors. If a player spends at least 20 days in the minors during a season, it counts as one of those three option years. However, under specific circumstances, a player can qualify for a fourth option year.

A fourth option is granted if a player uses up their three option years before completing five professional seasons. MLB defines a professional season as one where a player spends at least 90 days on an MLB or minor league active roster. This rule often affects players who spend several years in the minors before being added to the 40-man roster.

Pereira and Vivas joined their respective 40-man rosters in the 2021-22 offseason and have been optioned each year since. Before 2021, neither completed a full professional season, as they spent 2017-19 in complexes or short-season affiliates without reaching the 90-day threshold. Additionally, the canceled 2020 minor league season did not count as a professional year. Consequently, Vivas has logged four professional seasons (2021-24), while Pereira completed a full minor league campaign only in 2022.

Kranick joined the Mets' 40-man roster after the 2020 season, having already accrued two professional seasons. His third season was in 2021, but he spent the majority of the 2022-23 seasons on the injured list due to forearm issues and Tommy John surgery. He returned to health in 2024, marking his fourth professional season.

​The eligibility for a fourth option means these players can be reassigned to the minors without needing to clear waivers, providing their teams with roster flexibility. While Vivas and Kranick may be on the 40-man roster bubble, the extra option is particularly beneficial for Pereira. The former top prospect, who underwent elbow surgery last June, can now be sent back to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre for further evaluation without the risk of being exposed to waivers.

The Boston Red Sox have agreed to a one-year contract with left-handed reliever Aroldis Chapman, pending a physical. The deal, which guarantees the Wasserman client $10.75 million, will require the Red Sox to make a corresponding move to clear space on their full 40-man roster once it becomes official.

Chapman, now set to join his fifth team since 2022, may not be the elite closer he once was with the Cincinnati Reds and New York Yankees, but he remains an effective, if somewhat unpredictable, reliever. In the 2023 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Chapman posted a 3.79 ERA over 61 2/3 innings. Initially signed as a setup man for David Bednar, Chapman stepped into the closer role late in the season, recording 22 holds and 14 saves while only blowing five leads.

Despite nearing his 37th birthday, Chapman continues to be one of the hardest-throwing pitchers in the league. His four-seam fastball averaged 97.8 MPH, and his sinker hit an impressive 99.8 MPH. Although Chapman is no longer alone in terms of velocity, his arm speed remains exceptional for a left-handed pitcher. Among southpaws with at least five innings pitched, only Jose A. Ferrer and Gregory Soto threw faster four-seamers. Chapman's sinker velocity was the highest among lefties and ranked fourth overall in MLB, behind only Emmanuel Clase, Justin Martinez, and Seth Halvorsen.

​Chapman's addition to the Red Sox bullpen brings a mix of veteran experience and high-octane pitching, which Boston hopes will bolster their relief corps in the upcoming season. As the team navigates their roster adjustments, fans will be eager to see how Chapman performs in a Red Sox uniform.

The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are reportedly gearing up for a fierce competition to sign free agent outfielder Juan Soto.

Early Offers and Competitive Bids
MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported on Tuesday that the Red Sox have emerged as serious contenders for Soto, following a recent pitch to the 26-year-old star. By Wednesday, Heyman noted that the Yankees had responded with an improved bid, indicating that the situation around Soto "remains fluid." The Yankees have also conveyed their willingness to include opt-out clauses in Soto's new contract.

Ongoing Negotiations
With the first round of Soto's free agency bidding effectively over, the next round has already begun. Both the Yankees and Red Sox have upped their offers, and it is expected that other interested teams, including the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays, will adjust their initial offers as well. Heyman described the Soto sweepstakes as being in the "middle innings," suggesting that the final decision could still be some time away.

Potential Contract Value
​Soto's new contract is anticipated to be substantial, potentially worth up to $700 million. As a transformative player, Soto has the ability to significantly impact any franchise he joins. This high-stakes bidding war reflects the intense interest and competition among teams eager to secure his talents.

The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are not only two of the top contenders in the race to sign Juan Soto, but they may also find themselves in a bidding war for another big-name free agent this offseason.

Interest in Blake Snell
Both the Yankees and Red Sox were interested in acquiring left-handed starter Blake Snell. However, Snell reached a five-year, $182 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, leaving the two rivals to explore other options.

Focus on Max Fried
According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Yankees and Red Sox are now focusing their attention on Max Fried, the top remaining left-handed starter on the free-agent market. Fried has garnered significant interest, particularly after Snell's departure from the market.

Competition for Fried
The competition for Fried is fierce. In addition to the Yankees and Red Sox, other teams, including the Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays—both AL East rivals—are also in the mix. Beyond these teams, many clubs are in need of starting pitching, making the market for Fried highly competitive.
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As the offseason progresses, the Yankees and Red Sox will continue their pursuit of key players to bolster their rosters. The race to sign Fried will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, adding another layer of intrigue to the storied rivalry between these two franchises.

The Boston Red Sox are among the five teams that have made a contract offer to star free agent Juan Soto, as reported by MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi. While the specifics of the offer remain undisclosed, it is clear that Boston is serious in its pursuit of the offseason's top free agent.

Boston's Bold Move
Writing for the New York Post, Mark W. Sanchez and MLB Network insider Jon Heyman indicated that the Red Sox are increasingly seen as a legitimate contender in the race to sign the generational slugger. Boston is stepping up efforts to lure Soto away from their historic AL East rival, making a significant statement about their intentions for the upcoming season.

Free Agent Interests
In addition to Soto, the Red Sox have been linked to several other top free agents early in the offseason. This includes starting pitchers Corbin Burnes and Max Fried, infielder Willy Adames, and outfielder Teoscar Hernández. According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, the Red Sox were also in contention for Blake Snell before he agreed to a five-year deal with the Dodgers. With Snell off the market, Boston may now focus its attention on Fried to bolster their rotation.

Financial Flexibility
According to a report from the Boston Globe, the Red Sox are looking to add a top-tier starter even if they manage to sign Soto. However, signing Soto would reduce their financial flexibility. CEO/president Sam Kennedy has stated that the Red Sox are open to exceeding the first Competitive Balance Tax threshold of $241 million to achieve their goals. Currently, Cot's Baseball Contracts estimates the Red Sox's CBT number at approximately $164 million, leaving $77 million before reaching the tax threshold.

Potential Trade Options
​If the Red Sox are priced out of the market for elite free-agent pitchers, they may pursue trades to fulfill their need for an ace. Jon Paul Morosi suggests that Boston could be a team to watch in the trade market for White Sox lefty Garrett Crochet. The Red Sox's depth of highly touted position-player prospects could make them an attractive trade partner for the White Sox.

The Boston Red Sox are ramping up their pursuit of Juan Soto, the top free agent on the market, according to a report from New York Post MLB insiders Jon Heyman and Mark W. Sanchez. The franchise is highlighting Soto's potential fit with the team and its rich history of star players from the Dominican Republic, such as David Ortiz, Pedro Martinez, and Rafael Devers. Additionally, the Red Sox have a storied legacy of left-handed hitters like Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski, and Ortiz himself, who achieved significant success at Fenway Park.

Despite the Red Sox’s recent trend of letting star players leave to cut costs, they are emerging as a surprising contender for Soto. "Such an expenditure from the Red Sox would be stunning for a franchise that traded away Mookie Betts rather than signing him long term; that has cut payroll significantly beginning in 2020 and spent around $120 million less last season than the Yankees; and, relatedly, that has reached the postseason in one of the past six seasons, a span that has included three last-place finishes in the AL East," Heyman and Sanchez wrote. "Perhaps the Red Sox and controlling owner John Henry have decided to awaken at a busy moment."

Landing Soto would be a significant coup for the Red Sox, especially if it means outmaneuvering rivals like the New York Yankees. The race for Soto's signature is highly competitive, with other major teams such as the Yankees, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers also showing strong interest.

​As the offseason heats up, all eyes will be on whether the Red Sox can secure one of baseball’s brightest stars to bolster their roster.

Willy Adames, a seasoned shortstop with a seven-year MLB career, has established himself as a plus defender over the past three years, according to outs above average. However, the 29-year-old is now open to playing third base "for the right deal and the right team," as reported by MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi.

Teams Expressing Interest
This newfound flexibility has garnered interest from at least three teams: the Houston Astros, Philadelphia Phillies, and Boston Red Sox.

Astros: According to Morosi, the Astros are considering Adames as a potential third baseman. This move would address a significant need for Houston if they are unable to re-sign Alex Bregman.

Phillies: Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports that the Phillies' interest in Adames hinges on whether they can trade third baseman Alec Bohm as part of a package deal for White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet. Should such a trade materialize, the Phillies are expected to aggressively pursue either Adames or Bregman.

Red Sox: Nightengale also highlights that the Red Sox have "strong interest" in Adames. Currently, Boston has Trevor Story at shortstop and perennial All-Star Rafael Devers at third. However, the team has reportedly considered moving Devers to another position, which could create an opportunity for Adames at third base. Additionally, Adames could provide depth at shortstop, where Story has played only 163 games in three seasons with the Red Sox.

​Adames' willingness to switch positions enhances his value on the market, making him a versatile and attractive option for teams looking to bolster their infield defense and lineup flexibility.

The Boston Red Sox are exploring the possibility of moving longtime third baseman Rafael Devers to first base, according to a report from MassLive's Sean McAdam. This internal discussion has sparked interest in acquiring third baseman Nolan Arenado to fill the vacancy at the hot corner if Devers changes positions.

Internal Discussions and Potential Changes
The idea of shifting Devers to first base has been previously suggested by The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal and The New York Post's Jon Heyman. However, McAdam's report marks the first confirmation that the Red Sox are seriously considering this move. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has previously declined to comment on the matter, emphasizing that any decision would involve discussing it with Devers first. This could be a significant hurdle, as Devers' agent, Nelson Montes de Oca, recently stated that Devers has no intention of moving off third base.

Obstacles to the Position Change
Beyond Devers' resistance, there are other challenges to this potential shift. The Red Sox already have a talented first baseman in Triston Casas, who is under team control for four more seasons and has expressed interest in a long-term extension with Boston. Casas, who missed much of the 2024 season due to injury, has a career batting line of .250/.357/.473 since his debut in late 2022.

Speculation this winter suggested that the Red Sox might consider trading Casas to acquire starting pitching, but Breslow quickly dismissed those rumors. Therefore, moving Devers to first base would require the front office to either change their stance on trading Casas or designate him as a regular DH, potentially displacing Masataka Yoshida, who has three years and $55.6 million remaining on his contract.

Possible Trade for Nolan ArenadoIf the Red Sox proceed with moving Devers to first base, they view a trade for Nolan Arenado as a viable option to fill the void at third base. Arenado, known for his exceptional defensive skills and powerful bat, could be a significant addition to the Red Sox lineup, bringing both experience and talent to the hot corner.

​As the Red Sox continue to evaluate their options, fans and analysts will be closely monitoring these developments and their potential impact on the team's roster and performance in the upcoming season.

The Boston Red Sox have unveiled their 2025 coaching staff, introducing José Flores as the new first base coach/infield instructor and Parker Guinn as the catching instructor/bullpen catcher. These new additions join a team of returning coaches from 2024 and previously-reported hirings, creating a well-rounded and experienced staff for the upcoming season.

José Flores: First Base Coach/Infield Instructor
​Flores, 53, is an internal promotion who spent the past three seasons as the bench coach for Triple-A Worcester. His experience extends beyond the minors, having previously served as the first base/infield coach for the Philadelphia Phillies and Baltimore Orioles. Flores has also contributed his expertise to several other minor league clubs and team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. His extensive background in coaching and player development makes him a valuable asset to the Red Sox coaching staff.

Parker Guinn: Catching Instructor/Bullpen Catcher
Guinn, 31, brings a fresh perspective to the Red Sox with his diverse coaching experience. Prior to joining affiliated ball, he coached at various college programs, including the University of Washington, Everett Community College, University of Utah, and Southern Illinois Edwardsville University. Most recently, Guinn managed the Yankees in the Dominican Summer League for the past two years. His background in player development and managerial experience will be crucial in his new role with the Red Sox.
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The Red Sox are confident that the expertise and dedication of their coaching staff will lead to a successful 2025 season. The combination of seasoned professionals and fresh talent promises to bring innovative strategies and strong player development to the team.

While Juan Soto's free agency meetings continue to grab headlines, another high-profile player is making waves in the market. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, left-hander Blake Snell has recently met with the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers. The Toronto Blue Jays are also showing interest and may arrange a meeting soon, with the Baltimore Orioles potentially following suit.

Both the Red Sox and Dodgers are on the lookout for top-tier rotation talent this offseason, and Snell, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, certainly fits the bill. Unlike last year, when Snell lingered on the market before signing a two-year deal with an opt-out in San Francisco just before Opening Day, he is now motivated to secure his future more swiftly.

For the Red Sox, Snell would be a key addition to a rotation that could lose Nick Pivetta to free agency after he declined a qualifying offer. Currently, Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, and Brayan Bello are secured in the rotation, with Lucas Giolito expected to join them in the first half of the season following his recovery from UCL surgery. Garrett Whitlock is also returning from a similar procedure, adding to the team's uncertainty.

Other potential candidates for the remaining rotation spots at Fenway Park include Richard Fitts, Cooper Criswell, Quinn Priester, and Zach Penrod. Criswell, despite a solid season, faces competition due to eligibility for a fourth option year, offering the Red Sox more flexibility.

Red Sox fans are understandably cautious about the team's commitment to high-profile free agents, especially after last offseason's lackluster results following chairman Tom Werner's "full throttle" promise. However, Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has adopted a more proactive approach this time, emphasizing the need to "deliver a team capable of winning the AL East," even if it requires aggressive acquisitions.

​As the offseason progresses, Blake Snell's free agency pursuits will be closely monitored by fans and analysts, with potential for significant shifts in the competitive landscape of the league.

The Boston Red Sox have signed catcher Seby Zavala and utility player Nate Eaton to minor league contracts, as reflected in the team’s transactions log onMLB.com.Both players will receive invitations to major league spring training, with Eaton earning a $780K base salary if he makes it onto the 40-man roster, according to Jon Morosi ofMLB.com.

Seby Zavala, represented by Headline Sports Group, spent the 2024 season with the Seattle Mariners organization. He joined the Mariners along with reliever prospect Carlos Vargas in a trade that sent Eugenio Suarez to the Diamondbacks. Zavala, known for his defensive prowess behind the plate, was expected to serve as the backup to Mariners' primary catcher Cal Raleigh.

Unfortunately, Zavala’s performance at the plate didn’t meet expectations. In a limited sample of 43 plate appearances, the 31-year-old posted a .154/.214/.282 slash line, leading the Mariners to designate him for assignment three times. Despite these setbacks, Zavala opted to stay with the organization through outright assignments until becoming a free agent at season’s end.

Over his MLB career, Zavala has played in 194 games, maintaining a .205/.271/.342 batting average. While he has shown some power potential, his high strikeout rate of 35.9% in 557 plate appearances has hindered his offensive consistency. However, Zavala’s defensive skills are well-regarded, with elite framing marks and above-average grades for blocking pitches, according to Statcast. With only two catchers on their 40-man roster, Connor Wong and Mickey Gasper, the Red Sox are adding valuable depth with Zavala.

Nate Eaton, set to turn 28 next month, is represented by Gaeta Sports Management. Though he did not play in the major leagues last season, Eaton has previous experience with the Kansas City Royals, where he played 72 games from 2022-23. Despite a .201/.266/.283 batting line in the majors, Eaton has demonstrated solid performance in Triple-A, hitting .261/.320/.455 with 40 home runs and 60 stolen bases over 255 games.

Eaton’s versatility is one of his key strengths, having played primarily third base but also logging significant time at all three outfield positions, second base, and shortstop. Statcast ranked him in the 97th percentile for sprint speed during his MLB tenure.

​Boston’s bench appears to have some openings, with utility player Rob Refsnyder likely securing one spot and Gasper potentially backing up Wong. Other players like Romy Gonzalez, Nick Sogard, Enmanuel Valdez, and Vaughn Grissom are also in the mix, but Eaton’s versatility could give him an edge, particularly with a strong showing in spring training or early in the season at Triple-A Worcester.

​By signing Zavala and Eaton, the Red Sox are ensuring they have the depth and flexibility needed to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.