Despite a 57-50 season that doesn’t quite signal World Series contention, the Boston Red Sox are planning significant roster improvements for the upcoming winter. Among their targets is Corbin Burnes, the ace pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles.
Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report has predicted that Burnes will be a key acquisition for the Red Sox. On August 1, Rymer suggested that if the Yankees and Dodgers don’t aggressively pursue Burnes, teams like the Mets, Rangers, and notably the Red Sox could be in the running.
Rymer forecasts an eight-year, $288 million deal for Burnes with Boston. He noted, “The Red Sox used to spend about $60 million more than they are currently. This offseason should be their opportunity to return to those spending levels, especially as the current roster appears poised for future contention.”
In the 2024 season, Burnes has been impressive, boasting an 11-4 record with a 2.47 ERA. He has pitched 138.2 innings, securing 128 strikeouts while issuing just 33 walks.
Burnes Could Anchor Red Sox Rotation
The Red Sox’s pitching staff, despite notable performances from Tanner Houck and Kutter Crawford, has been average overall. According to ESPN, Boston ranks 13th in ERA, has allowed the 14th most home runs, and is 16th in strikeouts.
Adding Burnes would address a critical need. His presence could transform a solid rotation into one of the league’s top units. Although acquiring him would be costly, his performance this season underscores his value.
Burnes has hinted at exploring free agency, expressing interest in testing the market. In a December appearance on the “Foul Territory” podcast, he indicated that any offer would need to be exceptional to sway him from this plan.
“Every player nearing free agency wants to gauge the market and see their true value,” Burnes said on December 19. “It would have to be a remarkable offer to bypass testing free agency and choosing where to go.”
While the Orioles may offer a better chance at a World Series, Burnes might prioritize a lucrative deal as he approaches his 30th birthday.
Tyler O’Neill Also Predicted to Re-Sign
In the same Bleacher Report column, Rymer also predicted that Tyler O’Neill will re-sign with the Red Sox. He identified other potential fits for O’Neill, such as the Arizona Diamondbacks and Kansas City Royals, but emphasized that the Red Sox can’t afford to lose him.
Rymer projected a three-year, $45 million deal for O’Neill with Boston. “The Red Sox would lack right-handed power without him, and Fenway Park suits his swing well,” Rymer said. “Re-signing him seems both necessary and achievable at a Jorge Soler-like rate.”
O’Neill has excelled in his first season with the Red Sox, hitting .268/.353/.546 with 22 home runs and 45 RBIs. Retaining him should be a priority for Boston as they work to improve their standing in the AL East.
As of August 1, the Red Sox trail the Orioles and Yankees by 6.5 games, but their offseason moves could be pivotal in their quest for a stronger 2025 season.