Roy Oswalt Rumors: Braves and Red Sox Updates
By Editorial Staff
We’re nearing the end of January and there are surprisingly still several viable free agent starting pitching options to be had. One such pitcher is Roy Oswalt; a veteran starter who’s had his health, and as a result his value, questioned this offseason. New reports have been released regarding two clubs that have recently been tied to Oswalt.
David O’Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution tweeted yesterday that the Atlanta Braves have not offered Oswalt a contract. Atlanta seems to be a strange fit for Oswalt, as they have been rumored to be willing to part with pitching this offseason in order to acquire offense. Still, we may see several unexpected clubs join the hunt for Oswalt as the spring approaches and his price tag continues to drop.
The Boston Red Sox, on the other hand, are a team that seems to have a need for starting pitching and could end up being a solid fit for Oswalt. The Red Sox have been tied to the right-hander this winter, and now that the Yankees have added a pair of strong starting pitchers many are waiting for Boston’s answer.
However, it looks as if the Red Sox are content to stand pat for now. After speaking with Boston’s general manager Ben Cherington yesterday, Ian Brown of MLB.com gets the feeling that it’s unlikely the Red Sox will make “any big changes” before pitchers and catchers report on the 19th of February.
Boston’s been operating differently this offseason, as they are acting in a more budget-conscious way than in years past. Rather than target a single big-name free agent such as Oswalt, Cherington has acquired several low-cost arms this winter.
If the Red Sox do decide to switch gears and pursue Oswalt at his now reduced price, the team will have to first move salary in order to do so.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.