Red Sox Shift Focus to Corbin Burnes After Missing Out on Soto and Fried

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.