The Boston Red Sox are prioritizing bullpen improvements this offseason and have already taken a significant step by signing seven-time All-Star Aroldis Chapman to a one-year deal worth over $10 million. Chapman’s addition addresses the team’s need for a reliable left-handed reliever after he posted a 3.79 ERA in 68 appearances with the Pittsburgh Pirates last season.
However, the Red Sox’s bullpen issues run deep. The team’s late-season struggles contributed to missing the playoffs, with the bullpen ranking 24th in MLB last year with a 4.39 ERA. While Chapman’s arrival is a positive move, more reinforcements are necessary, especially with the potential departures of Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin in free agency. Although Liam Hendriks is expected to return in 2025, Boston will need immediate solutions, potentially involving Garrett Whitlock or Michael Fulmer.
Among the top options on the market is All-Star reliever Tanner Scott. The hard-throwing left-hander is projected to command a four-year, $65 million deal after recording a stellar 1.75 ERA across 72 appearances with the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres in 2024. Boston showed interest in Scott ahead of the trade deadline before he landed with the Padres, and his availability could be a game-changer for the bullpen.
According to Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe, signing Chapman does not rule out the possibility of the Red Sox pursuing Scott. “More is needed for a bullpen that was among the worst in the American League last season, but Chapman should be somebody Alex Cora can trust with the game on the line,” Abraham wrote.
Pairing Scott with Chapman and Hendriks could create a formidable trio, bolstering Boston’s chances of contending next season.
