The Boston Red Sox are expected to be one of the busiest teams in the offseason after the AL East franchise's postseason exit by rivals, the New York Yankees.
While the Red Sox have emphasized bolstering the starting rotation, highlighted by the addition of Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo. Boston is linked with moves for power-hitters this offseason.
Following the trade of franchise third baseman Rafael Devers last season and his replacement at the position, Alex Bregman, opting for free agency, Boston's need for a powerful middle-order hitter has increased this offseason.
Although the Red Sox are reportedly pursuing Bregman in free agency, they could potentially look at Pete Alonso and Kyle Schwarber as they "represent the best opportunity to upgrade the offense," per the Athletic's Jen McCaffrey.
Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow echoed that sentiment during the GM meetings.
“Someone who is a threat who can hit in the middle of the order and can lengthen our lineup is going to be something we’re going to pursue,” Breslow said. “That is absolutely a path to improving our team.”
Red Sox unlikely to sign both Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso in the offseason
Shwarber is coming off a career year with the Philadelphia Phillies last season after smashing 56 home runs. Shwarber, who is familiar with playing in Boston, could end up getting a projected five-year, $145 million deal this offseason.
Meanwhile, Alonso is coming off a strong season with the New York Mets and opted out of his contract after New York failed to make the postseason. Alonso is projected to sign a five-year, $140 million deal in free agency.
As lucrative as it sounds, the Red Sox are unlikely to sign both Alonso and Schwarber; however, a deal for either All-Star will add a power-hitting dimension to the roster filled with bright talents.