Boston still has a lot of work to do this offseason for the offense.
The Boston Red Sox are exploring everywhere to add talent to their roster.
The acquisition of Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox has undoubtedly been Boston’s most significant offseason move thus far. The Red Sox added a much-needed No. 1 starter, but they still have some weaknesses. According to rumors, Boston continues to consider additional top-tier starting pitchers, including Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes.
The Red Sox need to add more power to the middle of their lineup, as well as additional bullpen aid. Unsurprisingly, there has been far more discussion than actual moves. The Red Sox have the resources to pull off more major transactions, but they must act swiftly before someone else does.
At least one right-handed slugger is required. Boston’s lineup was lefty-dependent last year, and Tyler O’Neil, the team’s greatest right-handed batter, has already left this summer. Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals has been mentioned as a potential candidate, despite logistical concerns.
Arenado is owed $74 million over the next three years and is considered one of the top third basemen of his time. The eight-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove Award winner could undoubtedly shake up Boston’s lineup, but what would the team do with Rafael Devers, Triston Casas, and Mastaka Yoshida?
It’s unclear, but The Athletic’s Katie Woo reports that the Red Sox have continued to “check in” with the Cardinals regarding a potential Arenado trade.
“The Houston Astros are serious contenders for Arenado,” Woo told the crowd. “The Los Angeles Dodgers are not.” The Boston Red Sox and (New York Yankees) (to some extent) continue to communicate with the Cardinals, but both clubs are considered to have more pressing roster needs before focusing on a potential Arenado trade. For example, despite signing Garrett Crochet, the Red Sox are still aiming to strengthen their rotation. This takes precedence over other requirements, such as acquiring a right-handed bat like Arenado.”
If the Red Sox sign Arenado, something would have to alter for Devers, Casas, or Yoshida. Arenado may play first or third base. As a result, either Devers or Casas would change positions. Someone like Devers could consider playing as a designated hitter. A trade involving Arenado appears to result in another deal involving either Casas or Yoshida, unless both were included in the hypothetical Arenado swap.
All in all, it would be nice to bring Arenado to town even though he would bring questions. Boston seems to be lurking in the sweepstakes. Could it get a deal done?
