3 free agents Red Sox must sign before 2026 season to boost playoff chances, ft. Pete Alonso

The Boston Red Sox finished the 2025 MLB season with a loss to the New York Yankees in the American League Wild Card Series. With an 89-73 record, they finished 5.0 games behind the Toronto Blue Jays, who won the American League East, edging out the Yankees on a tiebreaker.

Boston spent $203 million in their total allocated payroll for last season, while Toronto spent $255 million and the Yanks $305 million. The difference in wins could be attributed to the lack of spending on free agent signings by the Red Sox management, which has been conservative in its approach in the offseason.

Thus, heading into the 2026 season, bolstering their roster with offseason signings could significantly boost their chances. Here's taking a look at three free agents the team can sign:

#3, Dylan Cease

The Boston Red Sox need a solid #2 to back up Garrett Crochet. Their lack of starting pitcher depth was glaringly evident when rookie Conelly Early was asked to pitch in Game 3 of the ALWS, which the team lost. Only Crochet and Bello completed an innings per game played for the team in 2025.

Cease's asking price, expected to be in the $150 million to $180 million range, is a fine fit for the Red Sox, who aren't willing to risk long-term on starters. Cease had a poor regular season, pitching 8-12 with a 4.55 ERA and just a 1.1 WAR, but his market seems to be full of suitors.

#2, Pete Alonso

First Baseman Pete Alonso will be an ideal power at-bat signing for a Red Sox offense that gets on base pretty regularly. Alonso took a $54 million two-year contract with the Mets, and opted out after a strong campaign where he hit at .272 with 38 home runs and 126 RBIs.

If the Red Sox wish to add more pitching depth, they could look to trade Triston Casas and make space for Alonso. He could also serve as the team's Designated Hitter.

#1, Alex Bregman

Alex Bregman earned $40 million in 2025 with the Red Sox but chose to opt out of the rest of the $80 million in his three-year deal. He hit at .273 with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs in 114 games. His season was cut short due to a quad strain.

Bregman's experience is expected to help infielders coming out of their minor league system, like Roman Anthony, and looking to become part of the Red Sox's core in the future. Moreover, he is one season removed from a Gold Glove win.