The Boston Red Sox recognize the need to improve their bullpen, and the work done thus far this winter will not suffice.
To date, the Red Sox have signed lefties Aroldis Chapman, an older seven-time All-Star, and Justin Wilson, a volatile journeyman. Meanwhile, they recently lost Chris Martin to the Texas Rangers, and closer Kenley Jansen has been expected to go in free agency since mid-September.
The relief pitcher market, led by All-Star Tanner Scott, who wants $20 million per year, has yet to materialize. But it will happen soon, and one insider believes the Red Sox will play a significant role.
According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, the Red Sox are expected to sign at least one top reliever during the free-agent period. And Cotillo mentioned former Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Jeff Hoffman as someone the Red Sox had been in constant communication with all winter.
“Hoffman had a stellar two seasons with Philadelphia and is probably the best righty out there. The Red Sox have stayed in touch with his camp,” Cotillo wrote.
Even if Slaten and Hendriks have excellent seasons, Hoffman is likely to be the top righty reliever in the Red Sox bullpen if he maintains his peak performance. During his two seasons with the Phillies, he had a 2.28 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in 118 2/3 innings.
Hoffman hasn’t said whether he prefers starting or relieving, but Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports that he’s looking to match the three-year, $38 million contract Holmes signed with the Mets. Even if the Red Sox only utilize him as a reliever, it’s a manageable addition to the budget.
It’s unclear when the reliever market will begin to move, but Cotillo believes it will be influenced by Scott’s decision. If Scott chooses a team other than the Red Sox, the door may be wide open for Hoffman’s entrance.
