While it may not be one of the Boston Red Sox’ main goals this offseason, the Sox may need to look to upgrade in one area: their bullpen. At one point, they had one of the best in the MLB, and then it slowly fell apart as the season ended.
MassLive’s Sox insider Chris Cotillo believes there are a few relievers the Sox could target this offseason to help in the sixth or seventh inning. While they won’t be true high-end relievers, they’ll be veterans that aren’t to be messed with.
MORE: Red Sox insider reveals top eight starting pitcher trade candidates Boston could target to support Garrett Crochet
Here are the relievers:
Kirby Yates, Los Angeles Dodgers RHP
The former All-Star has been abysmal with the Dodgers, but in the 2024 season, he was an All-Star with a 1.17 ERA. The Sox were able to rejuvenate Aroldis Chapman’s career, so they could do the same with Yates.
Luke Weaver, New York Yankees RHP
Weaver was another reliever with a down year this season, but in 2024 was pretty good. Once again, the Sox may be able to revert him to his prime, and it would be good to have mid to late game. According to Cotillo, this is one of his predictions that the Sox will most likely acquire this offseason.
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Kyle Finnegan, Detroit Tigers RHP
Finnegan was a deadline acquisition for the Tigers, and he was a menace for them. With a 1.50 ERA and 4 saves in 16 games, he could be a great set-up man in Boston.
Justin Wilson, Boston Red Sox LHP
Wilson was solid for the Sox this season and came through time and time again. Cotillo believes the Sox will re-sign him, but with his age, they might go for someone younger instead.
Steven Matz, Boston Red Sox LHP
Another deadline acquisition, Matz balled out for the Sox, posting a 2.05 ERA with 12 Ks in 21 games. If the Sox want to re-sign a reliever, they should honestly pick Matz over Wilson.
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