The Boston Red Sox are determined to strengthen their bullpen this offseason and have already made a significant move by signing seven-time All-Star Aroldis Chapman. Chapman inked a one-year deal worth over $10 million, bringing much-needed left-handed power to the relief corps. In 2024, Chapman posted a 3.79 ERA across 68 appearances with the Pittsburgh Pirates, demonstrating his ability to handle high-leverage situations. While this signing is a step in the right direction, Boston’s bullpen requires further reinforcement to address one of its weakest points from last season.
The Red Sox’s bullpen struggles were a major factor in their failure to reach the postseason in 2024. A late-season collapse saw the relief unit finish 24th in MLB with a 4.39 ERA. While adding Chapman is an important start, the Red Sox risk losing key relievers such as Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin to free agency. Liam Hendriks, expected to return to the mound in 2025, could be a valuable addition. Furthermore, players like Garrett Whitlock or Michael Fulmer might step up to fill gaps in the bullpen. However, Boston cannot rely solely on internal options and must explore additional external solutions to solidify their relief staff.
One top option on the free-agent market is All-Star left-hander Tanner Scott, a hard-throwing reliever who could make a significant impact. Boston had reportedly shown interest in Scott before the trade deadline, but he ultimately moved from the Miami Marlins to the San Diego Padres. Spotrac projects Scott could command a four-year deal worth $65 million this offseason, a hefty investment but one that aligns with Boston’s pressing need for bullpen upgrades.
Despite the addition of Chapman, the Red Sox may still pursue Scott. According to Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe, Chapman’s signing “doesn’t preclude the Red Sox from making an offer to left-hander Tanner Scott.” Abraham emphasized that while Chapman brings reliability in clutch situations, Boston’s bullpen still requires more depth and quality to compete at a high level.
Scott had an outstanding 2024 season, recording a 1.75 ERA over 72 appearances with the Marlins and Padres. Pairing Scott with Chapman and a healthy Hendriks could create a formidable trio at the back of Boston’s bullpen, giving manager Alex Cora reliable options to shut down opposing offenses late in games. If the Red Sox secure Scott, it would signal their serious commitment to rebuilding a bullpen capable of propelling the team back into playoff contention.
