The Boston Red Sox cannot let their bullpen ruin another potential playoff run.
For much of the 2024 season, the Red Sox were in playoff contention, holding a Wild Card spot with a 53-42 record heading into the All-Star break. However, a second-half collapse followed, and the bullpen played a big role in that downfall.
Now, the bullpen is facing more challenges with closer Kenley Jansen and setup man Chris Martin still as free agents. The Red Sox signed veteran All-Star Aroldis Chapman to a one-year deal, but they will likely need additional help.
Tanner Scott, the All-Star reliever who finished the season with the San Diego Padres, could be a perfect addition, especially with his high strikeout potential as a left-handed pitcher. However, recent reports suggest Scott is seeking a hefty contract, which may not align with the Red Sox’s budget.
According to Sean McAdam of MassLive on the Fenway Rundown podcast, a source revealed that Scott is asking for a four-year deal worth at least $20 million per year. This would total $80 million, making it the third-largest contract ever for a reliever, behind Edwin Díaz of the New York Mets and Josh Hader of the Houston Astros.
Considering the Red Sox have never spent more than $32 million on a reliever (Jansen’s contract two years ago) and haven’t spent over $21.05 million on any free agent this winter, it’s unlikely they’ll match that price.
While Scott’s demands may be high, it’s also unclear if any team will meet them. Based on the outcomes of Díaz and Hader’s deals, no team seems eager to commit to such a large contract for a single reliever. The bigger the contract Scott seeks, the less likely it seems the Red Sox will be able to land him, following the trends of recent years.
