Call to the pen
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Boston Red Sox 2018 Season Preview

By David Hill

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 13: Snow accumulates on the 'Teammates' sculpture outside Fenway Park in Boston during the third nor'easter storm to hit the region in two weeks on March 13, 2018. (Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 13: Snow accumulates on the 'Teammates' sculpture outside Fenway Park in Boston during the third nor'easter storm to hit the region in two weeks on March 13, 2018. (Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Mike McGinnis/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mike McGinnis/Getty Images) /

Boston Red Sox additions and subtractions

Key additions: J.D. Martinez

Newcomer to watch: J.D. Martinez. Although Martinez was the only really notable signing that the Boston Red Sox made, he would be the newcomer to watch regardless.

Martinez certainly adds the power that the Red Sox need in their lineup. Over the course of 2017, Boston hit a combined 165 homers, last in the American League and 27th in baseball. Mookie Betts led the team with 24 homers. To compare, Martinez hit 29 homers in just 65 games with the Diamondbacks following his midseason trade to the NL West.

It is certainly possible that he approaches the 40 home run mark again this season. However, Martinez will also provide a great deal of protection for Betts or Andrew Benintendi in the Boston lineup. As one of the best power hitters from 2017, and a threat to hit a home run every time at the plate, Martinez could be the key to the Red Sox lineup.

Notable losses: Addison Reed, Doug Fister, Chris Young, Bryce Brentz

Biggest loss: Addison Reed. A key piece in the bullpen after being acquired at the trade deadline, the loss of Reed could have quite the ripple effect.

A versatile reliever who has spent time closing and in a setup role, Reed performed admirably in the latter spot with the Red Sox. After being acquired from the Mets, he produced a 3.33 ERA and a 0.926 WHiP, striking out 28 batters in his 27 innings of work. Reed also picked up 11 holds in those two months, serving a valuable role in the Red Sox bullpen.

In theory, the Boston Red Sox bullpen will be a strength in 2018. Carson Smith will be back at full strength. Matt Barnes found a role as a valued setup man. And Craig Kimbrel returned to his dominating form. However, Addison Reed served as a valuable security blanket, one that is now missing from the roster.

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