The Red Sox are on the cusp of a significant roster upgrade, and it's all thanks to Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow's strategic moves. But here's where it gets controversial: Breslow isn't ready to give a straightforward answer about whether the current roster is better than last year's.
In a recent interview, Breslow highlighted the team's improved pitching, stating, "Having dominant starting pitching is a huge advantage. It gives us the confidence to play our game offensively and on the bases, knowing our pitching will keep us in the game."
Breslow's confidence is well-founded. The Red Sox have transformed their starting rotation, with free agent signee Ranger Suárez boasting an impressive 1.48 ERA in 11 postseason outings. Alongside Garrett Crochet and trade addition Sonny Gray, the Red Sox now have a formidable trio for any postseason series.
But the story doesn't end there. The Red Sox have an impressive 14 starting pitchers on their 40-man roster, making them potentially the deepest they've ever been in this department.
However, the loss of Alex Bregman to the Cubs in free agency is a significant blow to the lineup and infield defense. And this is the part most people miss: the Red Sox still have a chance to strengthen their infield with a strategic trade.
Enter Nico Hoerner, the 28-year-old Cubs second baseman who has been linked to recent trade rumors. Hoerner, a Gold Glove winner, batted an impressive .297 with 17 defensive runs saved last year. He could be the final piece of the puzzle for Breslow, who needs to make one more bold trade to solidify the infield.
"Defense is just as important as offense," Breslow emphasized. "Our infielders need to be able to make those routine plays to maximize our pitching staff, which is our strength and identity."
The Red Sox entered the offseason with the need to add two hitters, and trade addition Willson Contreras is expected to help replace some of Bregman's right-handed production. Manager Alex Cora has already identified Contreras as Boston's cleanup hitter.
If the Red Sox can acquire one more impact hitter, their 2026 offense has the potential to surpass last year's, at least on paper.
But here's the catch: while Bregman was an important force in the lineup, his production is replaceable. The Red Sox aren't losing a Barry Bonds here.
Breslow has already upgraded their first base defense with the addition of Contreras, who ranked in the 91st percentile in outs above average among big league first basemen last year.
However, the infield defense overall remains a question mark, especially with the roster incomplete. The situation warrants patience until the full roster is revealed.
Marcelo Mayer, a potential plus defender at either third or second base, could be a key piece. Trevor Story, despite a down season defensively at shortstop, has the potential to improve, especially with his history as a plus defender.
The Red Sox could also look to upgrade their left-handed relief pitching and catching depth, but the focus right now is on adding that final infielder who can make a significant impact.
It's a necessary move, and one that Breslow can make without gutting the farm system or hurting the big league roster. With the right trade, this current roster could match last year's 89-win total, and even push them towards a 93+ win team.
So, what do you think? Is Breslow's strategy a home run or a swing and a miss? Weigh in and let us know your thoughts in the comments!
