In the free agency market, the Boston Red Sox are not giving up just yet.
Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow and Red Sox Manager Alex Cora spoke to the media prior to the team’s first formal workout on Wednesday. After Boston finished dead last in the American League East for the second straight season, Breslow has already made a few moves to enhance the team’s roster, but he isn’t going to permanently turn his back on the free agency market.
Breslow did, however, make it clear that the Red Sox are still dedicated to their “vision” and won’t be changing course very soon.
“Of course, if the circumstances allow for the advancement of the vision I’ve been discussing, we should seize the chance. According to NESN, Breslow said on Tuesday, “I don’t think it would make sense to turn away from any opportunity to accomplish that.” However, it’s also quite hard to say with certainty whether or not those will align. It is not really logical to discuss individual players. We’re going to stay involved because, as I believe we’ve discussed, the vision should drive the actions rather than the other way around. Since there are still several extremely excellent players available in the free agent pool, we must exercise caution and common sense.
This offseason, Boston made a number of noteworthy moves, including signing starter Lucas Giolito to a one-year contract and moving pitcher Chris Sale to the Atlanta Braves for infielder Vaughn Grissom. Still, the Red Sox weren’t the only team in the AL East to make a targeted personnel improvement.
In addition to signing pitcher Marcus Stroman, the New York Yankees also acquired three-time All-Star outfielder Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo. Closer Craig Kimbrel reached a deal with the Baltimore Orioles, while Justin Turner, a designated hitter/infielder, and pitcher Yariel Rodriguez were signed by the Toronto Blue Jays.
This maintains the pressure on the Red Sox to perform when 2024 gets underway.
As of Tuesday night, names like Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery were still available, but Boston is once again emphasizing its future-focused approach. Boston already added to its outfield depth and strengthened its pitching and infield defense.
Breslow and the front staff still have time to weigh their alternatives as Opening Day is on March 28—more than a month away.
