The new year has arrived, and the Red Sox are just six weeks away from reporting to Fort Myers for spring training.
How has their offseason progressed so far, and what steps remain to finalize the roster? These topics and more are addressed in today’s Red Sox mailbag.
What position might Alex Bregman play in Years 3 through 6 or 7 of a potential free-agent deal? — B. Lamontz
This is a fascinating question that highlights a potential long-term benefit of signing Bregman. While he would immediately boost the lineup, he could also become a future option at third base when Rafael Devers eventually shifts positions.
The transition wouldn’t have to happen immediately. A parallel can be drawn to how the Red Sox handled shortstop a couple of years ago: when Trevor Story signed, Xander Bogaerts remained at shortstop while Story shifted to second. After Bogaerts left in free agency, Story moved back to short. A similar plan could unfold with Bregman or even via a trade for Nolan Arenado.
Currently, the Red Sox can’t move Devers off third because Triston Casas is at first base and Masataka Yoshida is locked in as the designated hitter. Both Casas and Yoshida are coming off injury-filled seasons, and Yoshida’s remaining three-year, $54 million contract complicates trade possibilities. For now, signing Bregman could address the club’s second base void and add the right-handed power they need. If Casas and Yoshida rebound in 2025, their improved value could facilitate an offseason trade, potentially clearing first base or DH for Devers while Bregman transitions to third for the rest of his contract.
For clarity, I’m not advocating trading Casas or suggesting Yoshida will be dealt this offseason. However, if the Red Sox commit to a long-term deal with Bregman, he’ll almost certainly be the starting third baseman by Year 3.
What about playing Bregman at second base? — Steve M. and Melanie
Playing Bregman at second has its drawbacks, particularly blocking spots for Boston’s up-and-coming infielders like Kristian Campbell, Marcelo Mayer, and Roman Anthony. While it might work short-term, keeping him at second in 2026 or beyond could create congestion.
As for Vaughn Grissom, his future hinges on staying healthy and proving his value after a rough 2024. If he performs, the Red Sox will face a choice: keep him or trade him, likely with increased value. Other young infielders, such as David Hamilton and Campbell, will also compete for roster spots, while Mayer could debut after a strong stretch in Triple-A. It’s “prove it” time for all these players.
Expectations for Trevor Story in 2025 — Ray C.
Story’s health isn’t a given after recent seasons, but if he stays on the field, he could be poised for a big year. His defensive presence has been invaluable, particularly in aiding Devers, and his offensive performance after returning last season was encouraging. With a full spring training, 20 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and an .800 OPS seem attainable.
The closer and catching situations — Reid S.
The Red Sox appear comfortable with Liam Hendriks as closer if he’s healthy but could still add a proven reliever like Tanner Scott or Carlos Estevez. Justin Slaten, Boston’s standout rookie reliever in 2024, is also a strong candidate for the role.
At catcher, Connor Wong is expected to get most of the starts, but the team is working to improve its defensive performance. New coaching changes and the acquisition of prospect Carlos Narvaez should bolster the position.
The millionaire’s tax impact on player decisions — Ray and Anne Marie S.
While the millionaire’s tax might be a consideration, it hasn’t drastically swayed player decisions. Teams in low-tax states like Florida and Texas theoretically gain an edge, but big spenders like the Red Sox can offset those disadvantages with higher offers. Cases like Zach Eflin choosing the Rays over the Red Sox are notable but also involve personal factors beyond taxes.
Possible pitfalls of the Netflix documentary — @RedSoxPayroll
A Netflix documentary always carries risks, such as revealing candid moments that cause tension or distract from the team’s goals. Issues like player trade rumors or comments about controversial topics, such as Jarren Duran’s homophobic remark, could lead to backlash if not handled carefully. However, with filming now complete, the team’s focus should return to normal routines as the season approaches.
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