It’s time to face the reality of the Boston Red Sox’s situation.
Despite some exciting moments in the 2024 season, it seems unlikely the Red Sox will make the playoffs. They are 4.5 games behind the Minnesota Twins with only 15 games remaining and a challenging schedule ahead.
The team’s recent struggles, reflected in a 17-22 record since August, reveal that their lineup, though talented, is vulnerable. Its heavy reliance on left-handed hitters makes it easier for left-handed pitchers, like the New York Yankees’ Nestor Cortes, to dominate.
On Friday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic suggested a bold solution that could be the most audacious move the Red Sox have made since trading Mookie Betts.
Rosenthal proposed envisioning Alex Bregman at third base for the Red Sox next season, with Rafael Devers shifting to first base. Triston Casas could be traded for a starting pitcher of similar value, potentially from the Seattle Mariners.
Rosenthal’s opinion, coming from a respected national insider, should raise concerns within the Red Sox front office.
Fans have long worried about an overabundance of young left-handed hitters in the lineup. When a prominent reporter highlights this issue and suggests a significant change, it signals the need for action.
Bregman would be a strong offensive addition to Fenway Park, as demonstrated by his two home runs over the Green Monster in early August that dented the Red Sox’s playoff chances.
Trading Casas might be tough given his potential as a powerful hitter. However, Casas has recently been benched against left-handed pitchers, not just due to his slump but also because of the lineup imbalance.
Regardless of the specific player—be it Bregman, Willy Adames, Pete Alonso, Teoscar Hernandez, or another option—the Red Sox need to make a bold move this offseason. Playing it safe has brought them close to the playoffs, but they now need a decisive action to push them over the edge.
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