The Boston Red Sox ended a three-season non-winning streak in 2025, finishing with an 89-73 record and securing the third playoff spot in the AL East. Despite their improved record – the fourth-best in the American League – their postseason run was short, falling to the Yankees in the Wild Card round. It was only their second playoff appearance since winning the World Series in 2018.
Offseason Overhaul
The 2025 Red Sox recognized areas for improvement, particularly in their starting rotation, despite having a top-10 offense and one of the best bullpens in baseball. The rotation’s combined fWAR was 11.7, with Garrett Crochet accounting for half of that value. Recognizing a need for additional pitching depth, the team made several key acquisitions.
In December, the Red Sox traded for 36-year-vintage Sonny Gray, who had a 4.28 ERA in 32 starts with the Cardinals. They also acquired Johan Oviedo from the Pirates to bolster the back end of the rotation. Their most significant move came in January with the signing of Ranger Suárez.
Lucas Giolito, who had a solid 2025 season with the Red Sox, is now a free agent. The current projected starting rotation includes Crochet, Suárez, Gray, Brayan Bello, and Oviedo.
Bullpen and Offensive Adjustments
The bullpen saw limited changes, with the addition of former Oriole Danny Coulombe to a group led by closer Aroldis Chapman and Garrett Whitlock. On the offensive side, Willson Contreras was acquired from the Cardinals to address a first base position that saw frequent changes in the previous season, including Nathaniel Lowe, who signed with the Reds.
The Red Sox also traded for Caleb Durbin, who had a solid rookie season with Milwaukee, after losing Alex Bregman to the Chicago Cubs. Rookie Marcelo Mayer is expected to take over at second base, while Trevor Story will continue at shortstop. The outfield will feature returning players Jarren Duran, Roman Anthony, Wilyer Abreu, and Ceddanne Rafaela, with Anthony potentially emerging as the team’s top hitter.
Projected Outlook
Projections for the 2026 season vary significantly. PECOTA forecasts an 82-80 record, placing them fourth in the AL East, while FanGraphs predicts an 89-73 finish, maintaining their previous year’s record. These projections suggest that despite the substantial changes, the Red Sox may not see a significant improvement in their overall performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Red Sox record in 2025?
The 2025 Boston Red Sox finished with an 89-73 record.
Who is the Red Sox’s current ace pitcher?
Garrett Crochet is currently the Red Sox’s ace pitcher.
Which player did the Red Sox acquire from the Cardinals?
The Red Sox acquired both Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras from the Cardinals.
Given the Red Sox’s history of either excelling or struggling, how do you reckon these recent changes will ultimately impact their performance in the upcoming season?
