The Red Sox have had a productive offseason so far in terms of pitching. They acquired Garrett Crochet as a new ace, took a chance on high-risk, high-reward free agent Walker Buehler, and added Patrick Sandoval, a left-handed pitcher with significant upside, who is expected to return from Tommy John surgery in the second half of the season.
However, all three of these additions are starting pitchers. The only move made to bolster the bullpen has been the signing of 36-year-old Cuban reliever Aroldis Chapman, who the team hopes still has something left to contribute.
With closer Kenley Jansen departing in free agency, the Red Sox could still use another reliable arm to close out games. The top remaining free agent option in the bullpen is Tanner Scott, a 2024 All-Star and standout performer for the San Diego Padres in the postseason.
In a recent Instagram video, content creator Steven Russell speculated that the Red Sox could sign Scott, which would significantly strengthen their bullpen before Opening Day.
“The Red Sox have been going crazy with their pitching signings,” Russell said. “I love the idea of them signing Tanner Scott.”
Scott, 30, posted a 1.75 ERA last season over 72 innings, striking out 84 batters. Over 150 innings since the start of the 2023 season, his ERA stands at 2.04, with 188 strikeouts. He’s also made significant progress in reducing his walks, almost cutting his walk rate in half compared to the 2021-2022 seasons.
The Red Sox have been focused on adding pitchers with swing-and-miss capabilities, and Scott certainly fits that mold. As the top closer available on the market, he could be a crucial addition for Boston, which still appears to need a reliable option to close out games. The question remains, though: will the Red Sox be willing to meet whatever price the market sets for Scott to secure this key piece for their bullpen?
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