Ranger Suárez Signing May Prompt Red Sox to Trade Young Starter
The recent signing of Ranger Suárez by the Boston Red Sox may trigger the trading of one of their young starting pitchers. This move comes in the wake of the team’s unsuccessful attempt to retain superstar third baseman Alex Bregman. As free agent options dwindle, the Red Sox have shifted their focus towards fortifying their starting rotation.
Ranger Suárez’s Impact on the Red Sox Rotation
With Suárez joining the squad, the Red Sox now boast five healthy and accomplished starters: Garrett Crochet, Suárez, Sonny Gray, Brayan Bello, and Johan Oviedo. This does not even account for veteran pitchers Kutter Crawford and Patrick Sandoval, who are returning from injuries, or their three promising left-handed prospects: Kyle Harrison, Payton Tolle, and Connelly Early.
Starting Pitching Depth
- Five established starters: Crochet, Suárez, Gray, Bello, Oviedo.
- Two veterans: Crawford and Sandoval.
- Three young left-handed prospects: Harrison, Tolle, Early.
This expansion results in the Red Sox having ten pitchers with Major League experience. While injuries and performance issues are anticipated, this depth exceeds what most teams require for a 162-game season.
Long-Term Commitment to Pitching
Looking ahead, the contracts reveal a promising future for Boston’s pitching staff. Crochet is contracted through 2031, and Suárez is under control through 2030. Bello signed an extension in March 2024, extending his commitment through 2029 with a club option for 2030. Gray and Oviedo have shorter contracts, with Gray becoming a free agent after this season, while Oviedo remains under control until the end of 2027.
Potential Trade Strategies
Despite the depth in their pitching rotation, the Red Sox are still seeking a run-producing bat. This need may lead them to include young pitchers like Tolle or Early in trade discussions to enhance their offensive lineup.
- The Diamondbacks’ Ketel Marte would be a desirable addition.
- Marte is a reliable run producer and strong defender.
- Potential trade partners include the Cubs, who are open to offers for Nico Hoerner.
Trade Considerations
Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow expressed reluctance to execute more trades after significant player movements for Gray, Oviedo, and Willson Contreras. However, with Bregman’s recent departure to the Cubs, the team’s priorities may shift.
Though mid-January rarely sees major trades, the timing is not unprecedented, especially if the Red Sox aim to secure impactful offensive upgrades. With Ranger Suárez now in the fold, the Red Sox find themselves well-positioned to make a formidable trade offer as they navigate the remainder of the offseason.
