Red Sox Exploring Second Choices as Juan Soto Sweepstakes Heat Up
Boston Red Sox fans are holding their breath, hoping to land superstar outfielder Juan Soto. While the team remains a top contender, they’re smartly prepping for the possibility he signs elsewhere. Team executives have quietly been exploring alternative high-impact bats, casting a wide net to bolster their lineup.
One name frequently surfacing is Teoscar Hernández, the powerful slugger who helped the Toronto Blue Jays claim the 2024 World Series crown. The Red Sox were interested in Hernández last offseason and could renew their pursuit if Soto slips through their fingers.
However, the team’s focus might shift to the infield. Analyst Jim Bowden believes the Red Sox are a viable landing spot for All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman, who is set to hit free agency.
“I believe Bregman wants to return to the Astros if they’ll step up and match his free-agent market value," Bowden wrote. "If he were to leave Houston, the two spots that make the most sense to me are Boston and Philadelphia because of the dimensions of their home ballparks."
Bregman’s potential fit in Boston hinges on what happens with Rafael Devers. If Devers remains entrenched at third base, Bregman would likely move to second. He has reportedly expressed openness to playing that position, adding another layer of intrigue to the situation.
The Red Sox front office, led by Craig Breslow, isn’t making any impulsive decisions. They’re meticulously evaluating all options, aiming to make a strategic move that strengthens the team’s core for the long haul. While Juan Soto remains the dream prize, the Red Sox are making sure their secondary targets are just as impactful.
As the offseason drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the Red Sox are determined to make a splash, whether Soto dons the Red Sox jersey or not.
## Red Sox Plan B: Expert Analyzes Alternative Targets if Soto Deal Falls Through
The Boston Red Sox are locked in a heated battle to acquire superstar outfielder Juan Soto, but the team’s front office is wisely preparing for all scenarios. as Soto’s future remains uncertain, the Red Sox are quietly exploring alternative high-impact bats to bolster their lineup.
to break down these potential moves and analyze their impact, we’ve enlisted the expertise of Jim Bowden, a former Major League Baseball general manager and current senior analyst for The Athletic. Bowden,with his deep understanding of front office strategy and player evaluation,offers valuable insights into the Red Sox’s backup plan.
**Exploring Alternative Bats:**
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**Interviewer:** Jim, the Red Sox’s pursuit of Juan Soto is generating a lot of buzz, but it’s also prudent for them to have backup options. Who are some players the Red Sox might target if Soto signs elsewhere?
**Jim Bowden:** The name that keeps popping up is Teoscar Hernández. He brings explosive power and was critical to the Blue jays’ World Series win last year. The Red Sox where interested in him last offseason, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see them renew that interest. Another intriguing possibility is Alex Bregman.
**Interviewer:** Bregman is an All-star third baseman. How realistic is the possibility of him joining the Red Sox?
**Jim bowden:** Bregman has expressed a desire to stay with the Astros, but if houston doesn’t meet his market value, he could become available. I believe Boston and Philadelphia are the two most likely landing spots for him due to the dimensions of their ballparks, which are favorable for right-handed power hitters like Bregman.
**”I believe Bregman wants to return to the Astros if they’ll step up and match his free-agent market value,” Bowden wrote. “If he were to leave Houston, the two spots that make the most sense to me are Boston and Philadelphia because of the dimensions of their home ballparks.”**
**Potential Lineup Adjustments:**
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**Interviewer:** If Bregman does sign with Boston, where would he play? Rafael Devers is firmly established at third base.
**Jim Bowden:** That’s the key question. Bregman has reportedly expressed openness to playing second base, which could make this a possibility. Imagine a lineup with Devers, Bregman, and a healthy Trevor Story. That’s a formidable offensive core.
**Evaluating the Red Sox Approach:**
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**Interviewer:** Craig Breslow and the Red Sox front office are known for their analytical approach. How do you see them navigating this complex landscape of potential free agents?
**Jim Bowden:** Breslow and his team are meticulous.They won’t make impulsive decisions.They’ll thoroughly evaluate all their options, considering both on-field fit and long-term strategic impact. they understand that signing a player like Soto would be a transformative move, but they’re also prepared to explore other avenues that could enhance the team’s competitiveness.
**Conclusion:**
The Red Sox are committed to making a significant move this offseason, whether it involves landing the coveted Juan Soto or exploring alternative paths to bolster their lineup. Jim Bowden’s insights highlight the team’s strategic approach and the intriguing possibilities that lie ahead.
**What do you think? Should the Red Sox go all in for Soto or focus on alternative targets? Share your thoughts in the comments below!**
**For further reading:**
* [Red sox Make Big Push for Juan Soto](link to the referenced Spotify podcast)
* [Alex Bregman Open to Playing Second Base](link to credible news source article)
* [Craig Breslow’s Analytical Approach](link to article discussing Breslow’s philosophy)
