The Boston Red Sox are actively seeking improvement for their pitching staff as they gear up for the next season, especially following the New York Yankees’ recent signing of star pitcher Max Fried. Reportedly, the Red Sox are showing reluctance to commit the finances necessary to acquire former Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand.
With Fried now part of the Yankees on a record-breaking eight-year, $218 million deal, Burnes stands out as the last significant free-agent starting pitcher available, especially after Blake Snell’s recent acquisition. It is anticipated that Burnes will seek a contract that exceeds Fried’s, which raises caution for the Red Sox regarding the potential cost.
Burnes had a challenging 2024 season with the Baltimore Orioles, registering his lowest strikeout rate and allowing a higher number of hits than in previous years, although he still maintained an impressive 2.92 ERA over 194.1 innings. Given these numbers, the Red Sox may find themselves weighing their options.
One possible route is a reunion with Nick Pivetta, who spent the last five years with the Red Sox before rejecting a qualifying offer of $21.05 million earlier this offseason. Pivetta has shown he can be a reliable arm, boasting a 4.14 ERA and recording 172 strikeouts in 146.1 innings last season.
Additionally, reports indicate that the Red Sox could explore trades, with Dylan Cease of the San Diego Padres being a name to watch if the Padres look to make a move.
In summary, while the Red Sox face a critical decision in strengthening their pitching roster, they have potential pathways, whether through returning players like Pivetta or utilizing trade opportunities, to evolve their lineup positively for the upcoming season.
As the Red Sox navigate the uncertain waters of free agency, their strategic approach can be an opportunity to not only enhance their pitching staff but also build a more cohesive team for the future. With calculated decisions, they can strategically position themselves as serious contenders in the league.