Boston Red Sox Offseason To-Do List
By Jason Burke
Add a Starter, But of What Caliber?
The Boston Red Sox rotation heading into 2017 will consist of the following: David Price, Rick Porcello, Drew Pomeranz, Eduardo Rodriguez and Steven Wright. Well, that’s the rotation I’d work with anyway. While this wouldn’t be a popular move, considering it takes away depth from an area that has already some question marks, picking up the team option on Clay Buchholz seems like a must, but then the team should field some offers for him. With one year left on his deal, and coming off of a poor season they may not get a ton in return, but he’s an intriguing proposition to other teams and a tiresome inconsistent performer in Boston.
Even without Buchholz, the Sox would have Henry Owens, who is no sure bet either, but represents some depth if the former first rounder can starting putting it together. But it’s definitely not enough. Chandler Shepherd, the team’s number 18 prospect, could also be worth a look a little later in the season.
In free agency, Rich Hill could be persuaded into a reunion, but he missed quite a bit of time in his own right this season. Ivan Nova could be an intriguing option on the market, but the big worry with him was whether or not his stint with the Pirates can be sustained without the guidance of Ray Searage. Jeremy Hellickson is the cream of the free agent crop, but offering him a long-term deal would be a mistake.
Henderson Alvarez elected free agency after Oakland outrighted him to the minors, and if he is used as a depth option, he could be a great buy-low option.
Of course, there is always the trade market. Chris Sale would obviously be a great fit and would help account for Wright, if he is unable to duplicate his spectacular season. The problem would be the price tag attached to Sale, who, regardless of his namesake, would not come at a discount. One or two players that are looked upon to be key contributors moving forward (perhaps Jackie Bradley and Moncada) would have to be included to get talks started.
Chris Archer and Sonny Gray are other names that have been floated around, and while adding young talent to each team’s roster would likely benefit each club in the long run, selling those trades to their fan bases (especially in Oakland, who notoriously traded away Josh Donaldson) would be rough. Each team would likely be after Rodriguez, as they covet pitching, but he could be a long-term asset for the Boston Red Sox as he continues to develop.
Next: Giants Offseason Priorities
There isn’t going to be an easy answer to solving this riddle in the coming months. Tough decisions will have to be made if the trade routes open. For me, sticking with the young core makes the most sense. Yes, David Price has had his struggles in the postseason, be he isn’t going anywhere. Neither is Porcello. Adding Hill this winter would be the best option as it would give the club a solid middle-to-back-end starter while keeping the band together for another run. They could always adjust course at the trade deadline if necessary.