The Boston Red Sox are set to sign left-handed pitcher Ranger Suárez to a significant five-year contract valued at $130 million. This information was first reported by Jon Heyman of The New York Post, with additional details provided by Bob Nightengale of USA Today. The agreement includes no deferrals or opt-outs, which adds to its attractiveness for the team.
Red Sox Roster Adjustments
The Red Sox currently maintain a complete 40-man roster. To facilitate Suárez’s signing, they will need to make corresponding roster moves. The team entered the offseason with a starting rotation led by Garrett Crochet, which revealed a considerable gap among the remaining starters. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow previously commented on their strategy, indicating satisfaction with their depth in starting pitching, specifically aiming for upgrades around their No. 2 or 3 starter position.
Recent Trades and Player Moves
Since the season ended, Breslow has made efforts to enhance the rotation. Key moves include acquiring Sonny Gray from the Cardinals and Johan Oviedo from the Pirates. The addition of Gray, who has a 3.63 ERA and ranks fifth in wins above replacement among pitchers since 2023, could fill the No. 2 starter role effectively.
- Sonny Gray: 3.63 ERA, 27% strikeout rate
- Johan Oviedo: Details pending on performance
While solidifying the pitching staff has been a priority, the team has also been exploring upgrades to their lineup. They have shown interest in notable infielders like Alex Bregman, Bo Bichette, and Ketel Marte, but progress has stalled. Bregman has recently signed with the Cubs, and Marte is reportedly off the market.
Future Strategy
Breslow’s approach to free agency has typically been cautious, but signing Suárez marks a significant shift. It is the first lengthy commitment he has made since taking the helm, with his previous longest contract being three years. The Red Sox had been the only major league team without a free agent signing this winter before finalizing this deal.
As Boston pivots to focusing on starting pitching after the setbacks in their lineup upgrades, fans can anticipate more strategic moves in the coming season.
