Score: 86/100
Red Sox secure Garrett Crochet from the White Sox giving support to Tanner Houck and Walker Buehler
The Boston Red Sox made solid moves this offseason, but have they landed their Ace in Crochet or Walker? Is the hitting finally where it needs to be? We know they've set themselves up for a competitive season in 2025. Here's how their roster stands:
Key Acquisitions:
Nolan Arenado is the star of the offseason. His bat and glove immediately improve Boston's defense and lineup. With Devers now surrounded by two elite bats, he's in the best position to thrive. Prediction: Arenado will hit .277, 17 HRs, and 74 RBIs—making a significant impact at the heart of the order.
Garrett Crochet had a solid 2024 season (6-12, 3.58 ERA, 209 Ks) and his future looks bright as a starter. He'll thrive in 2025 with a 3.14 ERA at worst and 190+ K's. Prediction: Crochet becomes a rotation staple with 8+ wins and a sub-3.20 ERA.
Walker Buehler is a gamble. Coming off two Tommy John surgeries, he's a giant wild card. But with his playoff pedigree, he has the potential to surprise. Still, with injury history, I'm not expecting an elite season. Prediction: Buehler will make 20+ starts with a 4.20 ERA. His postseason experience will help when the team needs him most.
Strengths:
Tanner Houck is criminally underrated and could be the key to this rotation's success. He'll exceed expectations with a fastball that can top 97 mph and solid secondary stuff. Prediction: Houck's year gives him a sub 3.50 ERA and 7+ wins.
Rafael Devers is entering his prime at 27 years old. He'll be one of the best hitters in baseball this year, with 40+ homers and a .290+ average. He's poised for a massive season, and his protection improves with Arenado in the lineup.
Triston Casas is another player poised for a breakout. His power and patience at the plate make him one of the best young hitters in the league. Prediction: Casas will hit .270, with 30+ home runs and 85+ RBIs, making him a potential All-Star in 2025.
The excitement for Red Sox fans doesn't stop there. Marcelo Mayer, the top shortstop prospect, is knocking on the door of the major leagues, and there's a strong possibility we see him making his MLB debut in 2025. Known for his elite bat, defensive prowess, and poise under pressure, Mayer has the potential to be a game-changer for the Red Sox. His arrival would mark a new era for the team and add another exciting dynamic to the lineup.
Weaknesses:
Pitching depth beyond Crochet and Houck still needs to prove itself.
While the offense looks much more potent with Arenado and Devers, there's still a lot of reliance on younger players like Rafaela, Yoshida, and Mayer to step up. If they don't, Boston will remain an offensive work in progress.
Final Prediction:
The Red Sox will finish 85-77 in 2025. With a well-rounded lineup, a strong pitching staff led by Crochet, Houck, and Buehler, and the star power of Devers and Arenado, they'll be competitive throughout the season. They'll miss the division crown but will be a strong contender for the wild card.
Their pitching won't be the downfall—there's enough depth to keep them in the hunt. The offense has the potential to break out, and the overall improvement in key areas sets them up for a strong 2025.
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