3 players for Boston Red Sox to target this offseason
By David Hill
The Boston Red Sox find themselves at a crossroads.
They have several key players set to enter free agency this offseason, including players that were key parts of their last World Series team back in 2018. Meanwhile, they have holes throughout the roster, with major questions in the rotation, bullpen, and behind the plate. That last place finish in 2022 may not be an aberration if they cannot fix the roster.
Three players Boston Red Sox should target
Chaim Bloom clearly has a lot of work cut out for himself. He may need to remake the roster on the fly, spending in free agency or looking to the trade market to bring in the pieces needed to contend in what will be a difficult AL East. His successes or failures this offseason could determine the Red Sox fate for the foreseeable future.
The Boston Red Sox have a lot of work to do this offseason as they look to contend once more. Here are three players they should target.
Xander Bogaerts
Let’s get the obvious one out of the way first.
The Boston Red Sox have made it clear that Xander Bogaerts is their top priority heading into the postseason. Although they have been looking to sign him to a long term extension since spring training, there has not been any traction in those talks. That includes the days since the season came to an end.
Bogaerts will easily be one of the top players available in free agency. He posted an excellent .307/.377/.456 batting line in his 631 plate appearances, hitting 15 homers and 38 doubles. He even improved defensively as his four runs saved at short were the best of his career.
In theory, the Red Sox have his replacement already on the roster. Trevor Story was an excellent defensive shortstop before signing to play second base in Boston. He could slide over to short and leave second base open for Jeter Downs to get a chance. However, given what Bogaerts means to the other players and the locker room, such a move could be a disaster.
The Boston Red Sox need to bring Xander Bogaerts back. While they clearly recognize what he means to the organization, they have yet to step up with an offer he would consider.