The Boston Red Sox still have ample time to make moves before Spring Training officially begins in just about two weeks. Despite the season rapidly approaching, the team has yet to make the big splash many expected, and it doesn’t appear that’s going to change anytime soon. While the Red Sox haven’t spent as aggressively as they hinted earlier this offseason, they still have both the time and the financial flexibility to make additions.
Reports suggest that Boston is still eyeing bullpen help, even after signing Aroldis Chapman early in the offseason. Since then, the team has been relatively quiet on the relief pitcher front, with a few minor moves made but nothing that significantly addresses immediate needs.
With top free-agent options starting to sign, another high-profile reliever, Tommy Kahnle, inked a one-year deal with the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday, per ESPN’s Jeff Passan. That leaves one of the most notable remaining free agents: four-time All-Star Kenley Jansen. While a reunion with the Red Sox seems unlikely after the odd ending to his 2024 season and the consistent reports suggesting he won’t return, Jansen is still available on the market.
The veteran closer has been reliable over the past two seasons in Boston after signing a two-year, $32 million contract, and he remains one of the best options left in the free-agent reliever pool. While it’s unclear if he’ll return to Boston, Jansen has expressed interest in playing for playoff-contending teams. With the additions of Chapman, Walker Buehler, and Garrett Crochet, the Red Sox are in a position to contend, even without adding a player like Alex Bregman. Additionally, Boston’s prospect pipeline is expected to bolster the roster in the near future, enhancing the team’s overall potential.
While it’s highly improbable that the Red Sox will re-sign Jansen, his availability could be a valuable opportunity for a team still looking to shore up their bullpen as they prepare for a playoff push.