Red Sox Pursue Free Agent Aces to Strengthen Playoff Ambitions
The Boston Red Sox find themselves at a critical juncture in the season, leaning heavily on the shoulders of their star pitcher, Garrett Crochet. This season, he has emerged as the standout ace of a pitching staff that was bolstered by breakout performances from Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito. However, as the season wears on, both Bello and Giolito are beginning to show signs of fatigue, raising concerns about the team’s playoff prospects.
To solidify their rotation and enhance their chances for October glory, the Red Sox are eyeing potential acquisitions from a promising 2026 free agent class. Aiming for a true No. 2 starter could transform their pitching lineup into an almost unstoppable force.
Merrill Kelly: A Missed Opportunity at the Deadline
Merrill Kelly, a right-handed pitcher for the Texas Rangers, was a target for the Red Sox at the trade deadline. Unfortunately, negotiations fell through due to the steep asking price. With Kelly set to enter free agency, Boston may find that securing his services is now more feasible.
This season, Kelly has compiled an impressive record of 12 wins against 7 losses, boasting a 3.21 ERA with 162 strikeouts and a WHIP of 1.064 over 176 innings pitched. If he joins forces with pitching coach Andrew Bailey in Boston, there’s a strong possibility that Kelly could replicate the breakout season we’ve seen from Giolito.
Michael King: A High-Risk, High-Reward Scenario
Another intriguing option is Michael King of the San Diego Padres, although acquiring him could be more complex. King would need to decline his mutual option, and his season has been marred by injuries. However, when healthy, he has been nothing short of stellar.
In just 12 starts, King has recorded a 2.87 ERA, striking out 67 batters while maintaining a WHIP of 1.070 across 62 innings. Should the Red Sox manage to bring him on board, he could form a formidable 1-2 punch alongside Crochet.
Brandon Woodruff: The All-Star in Recovery
Brandon Woodruff, currently with the Milwaukee Brewers, presents another valuable option for Boston’s rotation. Like King, he also has a mutual option and has faced injury challenges over the past year. Nevertheless, since returning to the mound, Woodruff has shown flashes of his former All-Star caliber.
With a 3.32 ERA, a WHIP of 0.960, and 74 strikeouts in 59 innings pitched, Woodruff could serve as an ideal complement to Crochet in what could be his first fully healthy season.
The Road Ahead for the Red Sox
As the Red Sox strategize for the future, landing one of these aces could prove crucial. Each presents unique advantages that could significantly elevate the team’s rotation. If the Sox fail to secure a proven No. 2 starter, their playoff aspirations may be jeopardized, highlighting the urgency of their pursuit in the coming months.
