Boston Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers didn’t hold back when addressing reporters on Tuesday, expressing his dissatisfaction with the team’s offseason moves, or lack thereof.
Devers was unequivocal in his belief that the Red Sox need to continue adding to their roster, stating, “Everybody knows what we need.” He has conveyed this sentiment to the front office, emphasizing the necessity for further acquisitions.
Following a disappointing 78-84 record and a last-place finish in the AL East last season, the Red Sox’s offseason activity has been under scrutiny. Devers’ outspoken comments, unusual for him, reflect his discontent with the team’s direction.
Projections for the upcoming season offer little solace, with FanGraphs predicting another last-place finish for the Red Sox in the AL East.
The team’s needs have been acknowledged by management, with Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow highlighting the requirement for established starting pitchers.
While the Red Sox secured starter Lucas Giolito in a two-year deal, concerns linger about his performance, particularly after a challenging end to the 2023 season with a 7.13 ERA in his last 14 starts. Giolito is slated to lead the team’s pitching rotation this year.
In addition to acquiring Giolito, the Red Sox saw departures in outfielder Alex Verdugo, starting pitcher Chris Sale, and free agent Justin Turner.
Though promising infielder Vaughn Grissom was acquired from the Braves in the Sale trade, the lack of substantial improvements following a disappointing season has left fans understandably disheartened.
Devers isn’t the only member of the Red Sox organization to express frustrations. Pitcher Jansen conveyed his own frustrations, understanding the organizational changes but remaining dedicated to giving his best on the field.
Even Red Sox legend Dustin Pedroia weighed in, engaging in discussions with team management about potential signings, indicative of the collective desire for improvement.
Criticism has also been directed towards Fenway Sports Group, the team’s ownership, with concerns raised about the team’s trajectory despite past successes.
NBC Sports Boston’s John Tomase provided a somber assessment of the team’s situation, suggesting that some within the organization feel genuine embarrassment about the offseason’s outcomes and the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
As the 2024 season looms, there’s a palpable sense of pessimism surrounding the Red Sox. Their journey begins on March 28 with a road game against the Seattle Mariners, offering the first glimpse of what lies ahead for the team.
