3 Players the Red Sox Need to Sign Once MLB Lifts Freeze
By Max Smith
It looks like MLB may finally be coming back. After negotiations between the players and owners came to one final standstill on Monday, commissioner Rob Manfred decided to implement a 60-game season that will begin on July 24.
The Boston Red Sox will need to do some work before that date.
Their pitching rotation is in shambles after Chris Sale underwent Tommy John surgery in March. Their infield depth is also not where it needs to be at this point. The Sox are going to need to make some moves if they want to make a push for the playoffs. These are three free agents that could help to make the Sox contenders this summer.
3. Tim Beckham
After being selected first overall by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2008 Draft, Tim Beckham hasn't exactly lived up to expectations in the majors so far. With a career WAR of 3.5 and average at .249, he's been mediocre at best in his six-year MLB career. However, in 2019, he had a solid season cut short by a PED suspension. Beckham's 2019 stats project to 27 home runs and 86 RBI in 162 games. You might think that the PEDs helped his numbers, which may be true, but it's probably worth it for the Sox to take a flyer on Beckham. He can play second base, which is a dicey position for the Sox, with Jose Peraza, Michael Chavis, and Dustin Pedroia being the primary options at the position. Beckham's power could offer the Sox a lot coming off the bench.
2. Arodys Vizcaino
The Red Sox have still not found a closer after losing Craig Kimbrel last offseason. This was their most glaring issue last season, blowing 31 saves at a 52% rate in 2019. As it stands, Brandon Workman will be the Sox closer this season. While he was outstanding last year, he works much better as a set-up or middle relief pitcher. If the Sox want a true closer in their bullpen, they'll sign Arodys Vizcaino. While he was injured for most of 2019, he put up great numbers for the Atlanta Braves in the previous two seasons. Between 2017-18, Vizcaino saved 30 games at an 84% clip, with a combined ERA of 2.47. While he's not a sure thing, Vizcaino's upside is worth taking a gamble on.
1. Andrew Cashner
The Red Sox are in need of starting pitching. As it stands, their rotation consists of Eduardo Rodriguez, Nathan Eovaldi, Martin Perez, Ryan Weber, and Collin McHugh. Not great. While his spell in Boston last season was disappointing, he may be the best option left in free agency. Cashner leads all remaining free agents in 2019 WAR at 2.69. He also brings a ton of experience to the table. While it may not be the flashiest signing, Cashner is who the Sox need the most at this moment.