The Boston Red Sox’s blockbuster acquisition of left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet marks a significant step forward for the team, but it also sets the stage for further roster adjustments. Trading four top prospects to the Chicago White Sox, the Red Sox are banking on Crochet to become a cornerstone of their starting rotation in 2025. While this move strengthens their pitching staff, Boston faces an increasingly competitive and wide-open American League, necessitating additional upgrades to their roster.
One critical area that now demands attention is the need for right-handed hitting, especially after losing Tyler O’Neill to the Baltimore Orioles in free agency. The Red Sox’s roster currently leans heavily toward left-handed bats, creating an imbalance that must be addressed. A significant acquisition in this department could result in a shake-up, potentially forcing a high-profile player out of the lineup.
Baseball analyst Chris Landers of FanSided has predicted further moves from the Red Sox this offseason. In the wake of the Crochet trade, Landers believes designated hitter Masataka Yoshida is a likely candidate to be dealt, given the current overcrowding in Boston’s batting order.
“The writing has been on the wall here for a while,” Landers said. “But it’s now even tougher to see a scenario in which the Red Sox are forced to run things back with Yoshida as a DH or corner outfielder option in 2025. Crochet comes very cheap for 2025 and 2026, freeing Breslow up to splash some cash at a player like Teoscar Hernandez. Boston is already flush with lefty bats, and Yoshida hasn’t hit enough (and hasn’t added enough value elsewhere) to carve up a spot for himself in the lineup moving forward.”
At 31 years old, Yoshida’s tenure in Boston has been underwhelming. Initially signed to play left field, he was relegated to a designated hitter role due to the emergence of the Red Sox’s younger, more athletic outfielders. Despite his reputation as a contact hitter, Yoshida has struggled to meet expectations, leaving questions about his long-term fit with the team.
Complicating matters is Yoshida’s recent labrum surgery, which casts doubt on his readiness for Opening Day. Additionally, his contract remains a hurdle: with three years remaining on his five-year, $95 million deal, his limited contributions beyond batting average and occasional extra-base hits make him an expensive option for Boston.
Moving Yoshida could represent a fresh start for both the player and the team. However, facilitating such a trade might require the Red Sox to absorb part of his salary or take on a less desirable contract in return. This scenario underscores the challenges of creating a balanced roster while addressing glaring needs.
In conclusion, while the Crochet trade is a bold move aimed at bolstering the Red Sox’s rotation, it has ripple effects throughout the roster. Balancing their lineup with impactful right-handed hitting and resolving Yoshida’s uncertain role will be crucial steps as Boston continues its offseason overhaul. With the American League as competitive as ever, the Red Sox’s ability to adapt and make strategic moves could define their success in 2025.
