The Boston Red Sox are poised to enter the upcoming offseason with several well-defined needs on their roster. The team’s immediate priorities are to bolster their starting rotation and to acquire a powerful right-handed bat. If the Red Sox successfully address these gaps, they could be a formidable force in the American League by the 2025 season.
One of the primary targets in free agency who fits these criteria is Baltimore Orioles All-Star outfielder Anthony Santander. The 29-year-old Santander is having an exceptional season, hitting 41 home runs and driving in 95 RBIs over 141 games. His performance has earned him his first All-Star selection, marking a career year that highlights his potential value to any team.
Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic has pointed out that Santander could be a good match for the Red Sox’s needs. However, he also notes that the addition of Santander could present challenges. The Red Sox currently have a crowded outfield situation, and integrating another high-profile outfielder like Santander might complicate their roster dynamics. Additionally, Rosenthal mentions that while first baseman Pete Alonso is another free-agent possibility, signing him could force Rafael Devers to remain at third base, further compromising an already fragile defense.
Santander is expected to command a substantial contract this offseason, with projections suggesting a deal in the vicinity of $95 million. This significant financial commitment makes the pursuit of Santander a complex decision for the Red Sox, especially given their existing outfield depth and the need to balance their budget.
In summary, while Santander’s impressive stats and potential make him an appealing option for the Red Sox, several factors—such as the crowded outfield and the substantial cost—could make this acquisition challenging. The team will need to carefully weigh these considerations as they seek to strengthen their roster and make a serious push in the upcoming seasons.