The Boston Red Sox were considered top contenders to acquire San Francisco Giants star Blake Snell this winter. However, late Tuesday night, it was revealed that Snell had signed a five-year, $182 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, which includes some deferred payments. Following this move, the Red Sox will need to quickly seek out a new option to replace Snell. While Atlanta Braves ace Max Fried seems like the most obvious choice, he is already attracting interest from several wealthy teams.
In addition to Fried, Cody Williams of FanSided has recommended that the Red Sox consider Cleveland Guardians ace Shane Bieber, who is returning from Tommy John surgery.
“Of course, the reason he’s been set aside in a different category is Bieber underwent Tommy John surgery early in the 2024 season, making only two starts. So as he makes his way back, it’s exceedingly likely he’s not ready for Opening Day and may not pitch until the end of the spring,” Williams wrote. “At the same time, if you’re the Red Sox looking for a long-term investment, that should still be highly enticing. It may sacrifice some immediate value but so much about his offseason is spurred on because of the future within the organization.”
Bieber could be a logical addition, but if his price is as high as anticipated, the Red Sox may find it difficult to bring him on while also pursuing other top-tier talent. Spotrac forecasts that Bieber will sign a six-year, $147 million contract this winter. While the right-hander would certainly improve Boston’s pitching staff, it seems unlikely that the Red Sox would take a risk on an injured player, especially as they compete with teams like the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Baltimore Orioles.
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