Boston Red Sox: 3 Free Agents to Target This Offseason
The Red Sox's Offseason Moves and the Road Ahead
The Boston Red Sox have been making waves in the trade market, acquiring right-handed pitchers Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo. However, with a disappointing Wild Card Series loss to the Yankees, the Red Sox still have some work to do to strengthen their roster.
Here are three MLB free agents who could be key additions for Boston:
1. LHP Andrew Chafin: A Reliable Left-Handed Option
Despite boasting the second-best bullpen ERA in the league last season, the Red Sox could benefit from adding another left-handed pitcher. Enter Andrew Chafin, a veteran with an impressive track record.
Chafin, 35, has pitched for eight teams during his 12-year MLB career, showcasing his durability and adaptability. With a consistent three-pitch arsenal (sinker, slider, and four-seamer), he excels at striking out hitters and minimizing damage. Imagine him joining forces with closers Aroldis Chapman, Greg Weissert, and Garrett Whitlock - a formidable bullpen unit that could rival the best in the sport.
And here's the intriguing part: Chafin is likely attainable on a reasonable one- or two-year deal. He brings veteran leadership and a proven track record as one of the top left-handed relievers in the game. Any contending team, especially the Red Sox, would be wise to consider this move.
2. Zac Gallen: A Top-Tier Starting Pitcher
The Red Sox's starting rotation performed well in 2025, but with the additions of Gray and Oviedo, they can aim even higher. Signing Zac Gallen would be a massive boost to their pitching staff.
While Gallen had a rough 2025 season, posting a career-high 4.83 ERA, he remains a top-of-the-rotation force in his prime. At 30 years old, he relies on his four-seamer and effectively mixes in a knuckle curve and changeup. Gallen pitches deep into games, gets hitters to chase his low-to-mid-90s pitches, and has been a cornerstone of the Arizona Diamondbacks' pitching staff since 2019.
From 2022 to 2024, Gallen recorded impressive numbers, including a combined 3.20 ERA and 4.1 wins above replacement per season across 93 regular-season starts. He even helped the Diamondbacks reach the 2023 World Series.
Despite strong performances from Garrett Crochet and Brayan Bello, the Red Sox's rotation still ranked 20th in MLB in WHIP and tied for 21st in opponent batting average. With Lucas Giolito also a free agent, there's a clear need for another proven starter.
Gallen's addition would elevate the Red Sox's rotation to the top echelon of the AL, if not the entire MLB.
3. Alex Bregman: A Proven Power Hitter
Alex Bregman, a two-time World Series champion with the Astros, joined the Red Sox last offseason. With 18 home runs, 62 RBIs, and a .273/.360/.462 slash line in 2025, he proved his worth.
Boston has the option to let Bregman walk and promote esteemed infielder Marcelo Mayer to everyday third baseman. However, retaining Bregman on a short-term deal offers more flexibility. Mayer could start at second base or shortstop, moving Trevor Story to second, or serve as a valuable bench infielder.
Bregman, a 2024 Gold Glove winner, is a defensive rock at the hot corner. He could provide veteran leadership and complement the emerging young core of the Red Sox, including Mayer and outfielder Roman Anthony.
While the Red Sox had a productive offense last season, they lacked power, ranking just 15th in MLB in home runs. Losing Bregman, an extra-base hitting machine, would only exacerbate this issue. Additionally, Bregman's postseason experience, having played in the playoffs for the last nine seasons, is invaluable.
Bregman is an impact hitter with a smooth swing and a proven track record. His presence improves the Red Sox's infield defense and makes them a stronger contender for the AL pennant.
So, what do you think? Should the Red Sox pursue these free agents? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Stay tuned for more MLB news and analysis.
