The Boston Red Sox Offseason: A Familiar Need for Starting Pitching
As the Boston Red Sox gear up for another offseason, fans are left with a sense of déjà vu. After missing the playoffs for the fifth time in six years, the team finds itself at a crossroads, with a glaring need to prioritize starting pitching. The 2024 season was a disappointment, and with new leadership under Craig Breslow, the Red Sox must make strategic moves to revitalize their rotation.
A Look Back at 2024
Last offseason, the Red Sox made headlines by signing Lucas Giolito and lesser-known swingman Cooper Criswell to bolster their rotation. However, the excitement surrounding Giolito quickly fizzled as he failed to throw a single pitch for Boston in 2024 due to an elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery. This setback left the team scrambling for reliable arms, and the results were less than stellar.
With Breslow now at the helm, the organization is keenly aware that more must be done to improve the pitching staff. While Giolito is expected to return in 2025, the Red Sox cannot rely solely on his comeback. The front office faces a critical decision: either orchestrate a blockbuster trade or open the checkbook in free agency. Unfortunately, Boston has been hesitant to make bold moves in recent offseasons, leaving fans anxious about the team’s direction.
The 2025 Free-Agent Class: A Mixed Bag
The 2025 free-agent class for starting pitchers is not the strongest in recent memory, but there are still some enticing options for the Red Sox if owner John Henry is willing to invest. Here’s a look at the top ten starting pitchers set to hit the open market:
1. Corbin Burnes, RHP
Age: 30
2024 Stats: 15-8, 2.95 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 172 SO, 47 BB, 189.1 IP (31 starts)
Corbin Burnes had a stellar season with the Baltimore Orioles after being traded from the Milwaukee Brewers. The 2021 NL Cy Young Award winner has established himself as a durable ace, consistently posting impressive numbers. With a track record of 30+ starts for three consecutive years, Burnes is a coveted asset who could anchor the Red Sox rotation for years to come.
2. Blake Snell, LHP
Age: 32
2024 Stats: 5-3, 3.12 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 145 SO, 44 BB, 104 IP (20 starts)
Blake Snell, the 2023 NL Cy Young Award winner, is expected to opt out of his $38.5 million player option with the San Francisco Giants. His impressive K/9 rate and FIP indicate that his success is no fluke. If he hits the market, he will undoubtedly be one of the most sought-after pitchers.
3. Max Fried, LHP
Age: 31
2024 Stats: 10-10, 3.42 ERA, 1.195 WHIP, 157 SO, 55 BB, 165.2 IP (28 starts)
Max Fried has been a model of consistency since 2020, earning multiple All-Star nods and a reputation as one of the top left-handed pitchers available. His experience and success make him a valuable target for teams looking to solidify their rotation.
4. Jack Flaherty, RHP
Age: 29
2024 Stats: 13-7, 3.17 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 194 SO, 55 BB, 162 IP (28 starts)
After a bounce-back season, Jack Flaherty is poised to attract attention in free agency. His impressive performance with both the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers showcases his potential, making him a solid option for teams in need of a reliable starter.
5. Nathan Eovaldi, RHP
Age: 35
2024 Stats: 11-8, 3.96 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 161 SO, 41 BB, 163.2 IP (28 starts)
Eovaldi has proven to be a dependable veteran, and while he has a $20 million player option with the Texas Rangers, his postseason experience could make him an attractive option for teams looking to add depth to their rotation.
6. Sean Manaea, LHP
Age: 33
2024 Stats: 12-5, 3.29 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, 183 SO, 61 BB, 178 IP (31 starts)
Sean Manaea had a breakout season with the New York Mets, leading their pitching staff into the postseason. His career-best ERA and high innings pitched make him a valuable mid-rotation option for teams looking to bolster their starting staff.
7. Michael Wacha, RHP
Age: 33
2024 Stats: 13-8, 3.28 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 143 SO, 44 BB, 161.2 IP (28 starts)
Wacha continues to defy age with consistent performances. His potential to secure a multi-year contract makes him an appealing target for teams looking for stability in their rotation.
8. Luis Severino, RHP
Age: 31
2024 Stats: 11-7, 3.97 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 161 SO, 60 BB, 182 IP (31 starts)
After a rough patch with the Yankees, Luis Severino found his footing with the Mets. His resurgence could lead to a lucrative deal in free agency, making him a valuable addition for teams in need of starting pitching.
9. Yusei Kikuchi, LHP
Age: 33
2024 Stats: 9-10, 4.05 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 206 SO, 44 BB, 175.2 IP (32 starts)
Kikuchi’s second-half performance with the Houston Astros showcased his potential as a solid mid-rotation target. His ability to adapt and improve makes him an intriguing option for teams looking to enhance their pitching depth.
10. Shane Bieber, RHP
Age: 29
2024 Stats: 2-4, 3.95 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 40 SO, 10 BB, 43.1 IP (nine starts)
Shane Bieber’s injury struggles have raised concerns, but his past accolades, including the 2020 AL Cy Young Award, make him a candidate for teams willing to take a chance on a comeback. His return from Tommy John surgery could provide significant value for the right team.
Honorable Mentions
The free-agent market also features several notable names, including Matthew Boyd, Max Scherzer, Justin Verlander, Walker Buehler, Charlie Morton, Clayton Kershaw, Alex Cobb, Jose Quintana, Nick Pivetta, Andrew Heaney, Michael Lorenzen, Nick Martinez, and Martin Perez. Each of these pitchers brings unique strengths and experiences that could benefit a team like the Red Sox.
The Road Ahead
As the offseason unfolds, the Boston Red Sox face critical decisions that could shape the future of the franchise. With a pressing need for starting pitching, the front office must weigh their options carefully, balancing the urgency to improve with the long-term vision for the team. The upcoming free-agent class offers a mix of established stars and emerging talents, providing the Red Sox with opportunities to revitalize their rotation and, ultimately, their playoff aspirations.