Boston Red Sox have options if they don’t sign Jon Lester

Boston Red Sox fans cringe when reading a Tweet or article about Jon Lester potentially signing somewhere else. While it’s not entirely clear who the favorite to land the left-handed ace might be, Boston needs to keep in mind that he could very well end up signing elsewhere.

During the eight and a half years he spent in a Red Sox uniform, Lester piled up some stellar numbers. He went 110-63 with a 3.64 ERA and 1,386 strikeouts. One also can’t forget the unbelievable accomplishments he achieved throughout the playoffs, going 6-4 with a 2.57 ERA. Any team is going to want that type of experience if given a shot at the playoffs. He’s seemingly done it all and the city of Boston wants him back.

But, what if a return to Boston isn’t in the cards? What will the Red Sox do if they miss out on Lester, given the team’s dire need to bring in a top-of-the-line pitcher?

While it’s far fetched and rumors have diminished lately, Boston could think about trading for Chicago White Sox ace Chris Sale. With an abundance of prospects, Boston could potentially pull a deal off. Chicago is in a touch situation. They haven’t been relevant since 2008 and don’t figure to be a favorite to content in the near future. Could they trade away their ace in order to expedite a rebuild? Chicago is in need of both a catcher and some pitching. With options like Christian Vazquez and Henry Owens appearing primed for successful careers, those two names could come up if discussions pick up again in the coming weeks.

Another intriguing option could be free agent Max Scherzer. He followed up an unbelievable 2013 season with an impressive 2014. His market is as high as it will ever be and contending teams are going to be looking towards him. Once Lester signs somewhere, the rest of the pitching market – including Scherzer – will start to fall into place.

If Boston fails to land Lester, expect them to pursue Scherzer with everything they’ve got.

We’re all aware of the Cole Hamels rumors. Teams like the Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers have been linked to Hamels early on. Phillis GM Ruben Amaro appears to be in no rush to move Hamels and is reportedly seeking at least three prospects in return for the 2008 World Series MVP. With the Phillies in need of an outfielder and at shortstop in the coming future, options such as Deven Marrero and Yoenis Cespedes could come up in discussions.

Lastly, Boston could always look to the Oakland A’s and Jeff Samardzija. There have been rumblings tossed around that the A’s could move one of their pitchers. Samardzija’s name has been the focal point of those discussions. He’s coming off one of his best seasons, but some don’t feel that Samardzija is really an ace.

Cespedes returning to Oakland and Samardzija coming to Boston is one scenario. Others such as Garin Cecchini, Bryce Brentz, or Jackie Bradley Jr. could also be a part of potential trade talks.

The Red Sox have options, certainly. Their main priority remains re-signing Lester, but he may not opt to return to the town that he loves. If a deal isn’t reached between the two sides, keep your eyes peeled as Boston will be actively looking to find an arm elsewhere.