MLB · 1 year ago

Red Sox MLB Offseason Checklist: 5 Steps Needed to Compete in 2025

Sportsgrid Staff

Host · Writer

Create a Strategy for Trevor Story and Masataka Yoshida
As young players rise, the Red Sox need a clear plan for veterans like Trevor Story and Masataka Yoshida. Injury-prone Story could see time as a DH to preserve his health, especially if Mayer and Campbell claim the middle infield spots. Yoshida, currently a full-time DH, could be moved in a trade to open more lineup space. Defining roles for these players will ensure Boston can make the most of its roster while giving prospects the opportunities they need to thrive.
Secure a True Ace for the Rotation
The Red Sox rotation showed improvement in 2024, ranking 7th in ERA and 3rd in WHIP, thanks to a standout year from Tanner Houck (3.12 ERA) and solid contributions from Brayan Bello and Kutter Crawford. However, none of these pitchers offer the dominance of a front-line ace that has been key to past Red Sox championships. Bringing in a top-tier starter like Corbin Burnes or Blake Snell could add stability and elevate the rotation to an elite level, helping Boston stay competitive in a stacked AL East.

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Strengthen the Middle of the Rotation
To support a new ace, the Red Sox need to fortify the middle of their rotation. Although they extended a qualifying offer to Nick Pivetta, who could fill a solid role with his sub-1.15 WHIP, adding one more consistent starter is crucial. This would solidify spots 2 through 5 in the rotation and ensure that Boston maintains the depth required to contend. Without these mid-tier arms, the rotation risks falling short in an ultra-competitive division.

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Bolster the Bullpen
While the Red Sox rotation held up, their bullpen was a weakness, ranking 24th in ERA and 26th in AVG against. With Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin hitting free agency, the team has a chance to upgrade the back end of their bullpen. Relievers like Tanner Scott (1.75 ERA) and Jeff Hoffman (2.17 ERA) are prime candidates to step in as reliable closers. A fortified bullpen would help secure late-game leads, a necessity in a division where every win counts.

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Bring Up Top Prospects
The Red Sox boast a strong farm system, with four players in the top 50 prospects list, including Roman Anthony and Marcelo Mayer. These talented young players could make their MLB debuts in 2025, providing an injection of skill and energy. Letting prospects like Kristian Campbell and Kyle Teel gain experience at the major league level can strengthen Boston’s core and build a foundation for sustained success in coming seasons.

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Create a Strategy for Trevor Story and Masataka Yoshida
As young players rise, the Red Sox need a clear plan for veterans like Trevor Story and Masataka Yoshida. Injury-prone Story could see time as a DH to preserve his health, especially if Mayer and Campbell claim the middle infield spots. Yoshida, currently a full-time DH, could be moved in a trade to open more lineup space. Defining roles for these players will ensure Boston can make the most of its roster while giving prospects the opportunities they need to thrive.
Secure a True Ace for the Rotation
The Red Sox rotation showed improvement in 2024, ranking 7th in ERA and 3rd in WHIP, thanks to a standout year from Tanner Houck (3.12 ERA) and solid contributions from Brayan Bello and Kutter Crawford. However, none of these pitchers offer the dominance of a front-line ace that has been key to past Red Sox championships. Bringing in a top-tier starter like Corbin Burnes or Blake Snell could add stability and elevate the rotation to an elite level, helping Boston stay competitive in a stacked AL East.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.

Red Sox MLB Offseason Checklist: 5 Steps Needed to Compete in 2025

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