The Boston Red Sox were busy in the offseason, bringing in right-handed pitchers Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo. Despite making their first playoff appearance since 2021, they were eliminated in the Wild Card Series by the New York Yankees, showing there is still work to be done across the team.
Here are three free agents in MLB that Boston should target.
Andrew Chafin, who has pitched for eight teams during his 12-year MLB career, posted a 2.41 ERA with 36 strikeouts in 33.2 innings this past season. Even though Boston’s bullpen was second-best in the MLB with a 3.41 ERA last year, they could benefit from adding another left-handed pitcher as Justin Wilson is now a free agent. Chafin, known for his sinker, slider, and four-seamer, can consistently get strikeouts and limit damage. Paired with closers Aroldis Chapman, Greg Weissert, and Garrett Whitlock, he would strengthen Boston’s bullpen, probably available on a cost-effective one- or two-year deal. Chafin brings veteran experience and remains one of the top lefty relievers, making him an attractive option for the ambitious Red Sox.
Zac Gallen, who helped the Diamondbacks reach the 2023 World Series, had a tough 2025 with a 4.83 ERA but has otherwise been a reliable starter. The Red Sox’s rotation pitched to a 3.92 ERA last year but still ranks 20th in WHIP and low in opponent batting average, plus Lucas Giolito is a free agent. Gallen, a 30-year-old who uses a mix of four-seam fastballs, knuckle curves, and changeups, could elevate Boston’s rotation to one of the best in the league. With Cy Young runner-up Garrett Crochet and rising star Brayan Bello also in the mix, adding Gallen would bring proven talent and depth to the starting staff.
Alex Bregman, who won two World Series titles with the Astros before joining the Red Sox last season, could be re-signed to boost Boston’s offense and defense. Despite injuries and some position disputes, Bregman hit 18 home runs with a .273 average in 114 games and is a Gold Glove third baseman. Boston could either let him walk and rely on Marcelo Mayer or keep Bregman for his veteran leadership and offensive power. Losing a slugger like Bregman would hurt Boston’s lineup, which ranked just 15th in home runs last year. He’s also a proven postseason performer, valuable for a Red Sox team with championship dreams.
Fan Take: These potential signings highlight Boston’s commitment to strengthening both their pitching and lineup, crucial for making a deep playoff run. For baseball fans, it means the Red Sox could soon be a more formidable contender, adding exciting talent and bolstering their chances to compete at the highest level.
