The Red Sox were known to be looking for middle infield help even before news broke earlier this week about Trevor Story’s internal brace surgery on his right elbow, which could keep the shortstop on the injured list for most (or potentially all) of the 2023 season. In the wake of Story’s surgery, two names have surfaced on Boston’s radar, as USA Today’s Bob Nightengale writes that the Sox have interest in both Jurickson Profar and Elvis Andrus.
In terms of being a replacement for Story at shortstop, Andrus is the cleaner fit, as the veteran could simply step right into a regular shortstop role. Apart from 25 games as a DH, Andrus has exclusively played shortstop in the other 1914 games of his 14-year Major League career. Public defensive metrics are a little mixed on Andrus’ glovework (+4.7 UZR/150 and +3 Outs Above Average in 2022, countered by a -4 Defensive Runs Saved score), but all in all, Andrus still looks like he can provide at least acceptable defense even at age 34.
At the plate, Andrus has been inconsistent at best over his career, but he did enjoy a lot of success in a late-season cameo with the White Sox in 2022. Released by the A’s in August, Chicago signed Andrus as a replacement for the injured Tim Anderson, and Andrus responded with a very solid .271/.309/.464 slash line and nine home runs over 191 plate appearances with the Pale Hose. His overall 105 wRC+ for the season and his 3.5 fWAR were Andrus’ highest totals in either category since 2017, and his 17 homers was the second-highest total of his career.
Despite this nice performance, there hasn’t been much buzz about Andrus on the open market this winter, as teams are perhaps more focused on Andrus’ age, his ability to replicate his 2022 numbers, and his more unspectacular recent track record before last season — Andrus accumulated a modest 4.3 fWAR combined from 2018-21. Still, there was some speculation that Andrus’ market wouldn’t really pick up until the “big four” free agent shortstops (Trea Turner, Xander Bogaerts, Carlos Correa, Dansby Swanson) were off the board, and teams still in need of shortstop help could turn to Andrus as more of a stop-gap option.
The Red Sox technically fit this description given their loss of Bogaerts, and Boston had shown at least some level of interest in such infield trade targets as Amed Rosario, Paul DeJong, Joey Wendle, and (before he was dealt from the Marlins to the Dodgers) Miguel Rojas. All of these players would’ve been eyed for the shortstop job, as the Sox could’ve then stuck to their initial plan of using Enrique Hernandez mostly in center field, or at least as a player who could be bounced around the diamond rather than someone primarily locked into a shortstop role.
Profar’s addition would create some lineup shuffling, and likely result in Hernandez getting more time at short. Profar hasn’t played shortstop since 2018, and while he was once a multi-position type, 2022 marked the first time that Profar played exclusively at one position, as the Padres deployed him only as a left fielder. The newly-signed Masataka Yoshida has already been tabbed for left field duty in Fenway Park, so the Red Sox could move Profar (who turns 30 in February) around to the other outfield positions, or possibly second or first base.
MLBTR projected Profar for a two-year, $20MM deal this winter, and the Yankees and Astros have both shown some interest in his services at various times this winter. Two weeks ago, MLBTR’s Anthony Franco broke down Profar’s potential market and some teams that might emerge as fits, though the Red Sox weren’t cited due to the assumption that Yoshida had filled the outfield need. Of course, injuries can instantly bring new teams into the mix, and Profar’s market could further expand if teams do see him as a candidate for positions beyond only left field.
The Texas Red Sox
The Texas Yankees tried that approach, and it failed miserably. Who would have thought taking rejects from a poorly performing team wouldn’t pan out.
The Boston Braves
Well, that team did exist prior to its moves to Milwaukee and Atlanta. Before their move to Milwaukee, the newspapers’ slogan for them was “Spahn and Sain and pray for rain.” I think the current Boston and Braves pitching staffs have a little bit more depth than that
That’s exactly why I said it. The New York Giants and Cleveland Spiders were also interesting. I strongly prefer Spiders to Guardians. “The Spiders have defeated the Blue Jays!” would be great headline.
And what’s the Sox slogan? “Sale and Kluber, then Howard and Goober”?
Spahn and Burdette and hope it’s wet!
Would still rather they sign Iglesias. Can’t see Profar at two years, $10m per.
DTR: did you change your moniker or is this another copycat?
haha
Clip, I believe he changed his moniker when the Rangers got deGrom. That was a while ago.
I changed the D to d. This is me. If I had a second troll, that would be hilarious.
Okay, thought so. Seemed like it was you based on the cogent comments.
it would be funny, but also, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery”
Thanks!
New name who dis?
Unless, like me, you are poor (as opposed to already rich) = and the person “flattering” you , doesn’t pay you one gd penny…….
Then it’s called stealing.
I happened to me. A millionaire and his son literally stole my entire life’s work of writing, dropped drugs on me and told people a load of carp……
The will never be a day in my life I don’t want those people – D-E-A-D…..dead.
People tend to forget that Beltre wasn’t all that great until later on
Texas Red Sox hah
Haha, dang that’s a good one. Sucks that dbag tried to steal your joke. Even though he posted it first, I know in my heart of hearts you really came up with it.
And what’s up with him arguing with nobody lower in the comments about Elvis Andrus? Preemptive straw man attack??
No.
Why Not?
I’d go for Jurickson Profar but Elvis Andrus… no thank you, he is far past his prime. Hoping Profar is the first choice as I believe he is also versatile around the diamond.
PW. It’s a one year move and the main objective is to be under the tax threshold. I’d take Andrus but would prefer Iglesias. Skip Profar altogether.
One year deal isn’t bad
No thank you. Just get Iglesias and then trade for an outfielder
Agree fully. I basically said the same thing before reading your post.
We might be able to afford Iglesias on a 1 yr deal. Great replacement for Xander Mr Bloom !!
That spot is being held for Meyer, Story will do just fine until he’s ready we just need a one year rental…
Kingburn I totally agree and 2B is being held for Yorke as Bloom is following Henry’s mandate to lower the payroll. I am just sick and tired of these 1 year contracts.
Well I have a thought, Yorke has been in the system for a couple years. Move KeKe over to short, he’s surprised us at CF and 2B maybe he’d be able to hold down the fort. We’d still need a CF though, maybe Verdugo can play it and you sign Profar for RF. It’s time some of these kids show something, imo.
kingbird–Kike may well do a decent job at short but its not like that is his main position and he also carries around a .240 avg. hUGE downgrade from Xander
Profar over Andrus all day every day.
They are looking at signing both… but I agree with you.
And if the Red Sox are lucky they’ll get one.
No. Being lucky is getting neither.
Yes – good one Dewey.
I agree–let’s go with one of these “great” prospects Bloom has brought us.
HEADLINE: Chaim Bloom interested in any unemployed middle-infielder with a pulse.
Robinson Canó would like a word.
And the word is “NO!”.
And another good one. Just say no to Cano – that ought to be a slogan for all teams.
But also tells fans can’t you see our vision…it’s going to be awesome
Just sign Freddie Patek and call it a day.
Fred Patek had a 3 home run game at Fenway Park while playing for the Angels in 1980. If Andrus or Iglesias could do that sign them.
JC-thats why I wrote what I did. As a Angels fan I remember listening to that game.
As a Red Sox fan, so did I….
Their interested in everybody and seldom deliver
“Profar, So Good… So What!” is one of my favorite under the radar Megadeth albums.
Sox would be best off sticking Profar on the grass and using Kiké on the dirt if they are unable to wrap up Elvis, too. Last we saw, Profar had the Sax yips from 2nd and he’s worse at SS but manageable in LF/RF. CF? Not so much, but he could spot start a few games per year.
What a weird world we live in when the Sox are contemplating the Padre cast-offs but we sign the Sox’ superstar SS…
Okay, so many great things about what you wrote here, but Megadeth? The 80s band? Didn’t they do…….Symphony of Destruction or something along those lines?
Yeah, lots to unpack there. I just needed someplace to unload my Mega-Profar joke and this story seemed like the proper place.
Yes Clip, that was their early 90’s mainstream hit. A good song with a nice theme but a little overplayed at the time! It holds up well though. If anybody is truly interested, their album “Rust in Peace” is a hands-down masterpiece on all levels. Their craftsmanship reaches amazing heights on that record, Thrash Metal or otherwise.
But I digress, I am straying from talking ball. About 12 months ago I gave you and Ducky a “buyer beware” on Tommy Pham. I suggest a similar warning for Profar, for different reasons though. Tommy was/is a headcase; Profar is due for serious regression and his ballyhooed versatility is a thing of the past. I would sincerely only recommend Profar for COF duty; his dirt days should be a thing of the past or else a fanbase will be severely disappointed. Of course, this is only my individual scouting perspective talking and I could be distinctly wrong on all prognostications. I wish him the best, he’s a good egg and great teammate, but I am happy he’s being entertained elsewhere.
I agree! fellow Padre fan here concurs. rust in peace is the best metal album of all time!
I trust your assessment, Gwynning. I also recall you warning us about both, so I do hope they shy away from them. Hopefully BOS signs him and takes the rug right out from under Cashman to prevent him from making a mistake.
Rust in Peace, huh? Okay, cool, I’ll have to try to remember that if perusing music.
Dude, THAT line-up… with Menza and Marty… bleeping ’27 Yanks stuff right there. Masterful! Go Pads
@Clipper, the Yankees and Cashman have shown no interest in Profar. He’s probably asking too much in years and dollars. He’d probably be fine on a one year deal, but he’ll get at least two. Basically, I don’t think the Yankees want to block a longer term solution in left. I still believe they’ll look at internal option to start the season with a goal to upgrade at the deadline if needed.
More importantly, someone mentioned Ducky. What happened to him? Concerned as he was a regular here, then prior on River Ave. Blues (RIP) and prior to that LoHud (also RIP).
I don’t know. I really hope he’s okay though. It was strange how he just dropped out and didn’t return.
Was he showing signs of annoyance at the tone in MLBTR threads? He seemed pretty balanced, enjoying talking to Yankee and non-Yankee fans. On RAB I told him to block an annoying poster he was frustrated with, but he said he didn’t believe in muting, everyone should have their say and free speech. I tried to tell him that the poster’s free speech still existed, but your sanity was protected! He didn’t agree, but it was an insight into how he thought.
Last year, right before he disappeared, I remember having a few conservations with him when he wasn’t happy with some of the moves the Yankees were or weren’t making, but that’s all standard fan stuff. I think he would have said he was taking a permanent breakfrom here, which is why I asked figuring maybe I missed it. From RAB days, I knew sort of what he did for a living. Had a successful business, and there were certain times of the year he was very busy, but there was some slight work-related danger. He was very busy in the spring and summer months, hence that’s why I thought he disappeared for a few weeks or months, but he never returned, so I fear he may no longer be with us in an earthly way. I hope I’m wrong.
L99: Yeah, we had discussed some of the problems with the Yankees (we typically were lockstep in how we viewed them) and he was getting frustrated, which I understand. I think some of the posters annoyed him on top of that.
I know he had a son in college too so there may be something going on with that as well. If he stepped away I can’t blame him. I don’t mute because even when I disagree with some of the more frustrating commentary I’d like to think we can have a future discussion like adults. Made some good headway like that with some folks on here and it changed my initial impression of them (and hopefully them of me too!)
The ones I have muted are super annoying and muted me, so I have no interest in reading what they wrote without the ability to engage in any type of discussion (ie, Samuel).
Maybe one day he’ll return and surprise us. Just have an uneasy feeling.
I’m not sure I have anyone in my mute zone only because I’m always on the app, and the mute option doesn’t stick in the app. The person returns when you return! Kind of pointless. Are you listening, Tim. :-).
Do you consider Black Sabbath a metal band? If so, some of their stuff, with Ozzy and even with Dio, holds up.
Love Ducky Bucking Fent. We were just friends here even though he expressed an interest in trading meats. I big game fish. Not 100 on what happened, but he did express some concern for having too much of an online presence when he felt he should be doing other things (dogs, family, hunt prep, etc.) instead of squabbling about ball with the “dodgy youngsters” here. I like to feel he just hung up his online spikes and is spending quality time with his dogs and family, and that’s alright by me. I miss his wise takes; just hope he’s happy plucking birds with the pups. If he ever returns, well that’s the cherry on the icing on top of the cake.
@Gwynning, I hope you’re right and that he just had enough of us! His exit seemed abrupt.
Boston would be better off firing Bloom and make a trade for Reynolds because I do see Bloom making a good trade the guy doesn’t know talent
Pirates are not trading Reynolds. 29 GMs have failed at that one.
Reynolds is a nice player who could do better on a loaded team. He’s not however the superstar the Pirates think he is with their asking price beyond ridiculous.
The Pirates are poisoning the well a bit in the way that they are dealing with this. The team, at this point, at least is starting to show signs that some of the young talent is ready. Ownership has been so cheap for so long, and a Reynolds becomes the result.
He SHOULD be a team success story but instead the narrative is all about two things – they won’t pay him, and they won’t trade him for anything that approaches sanity hence he demands a trade and the story dominates their bandwidth.
Reynolds is very good, but hardly a superstar. Highest and best use – a team such as the Yankees or Rangers where he is not the headliner but fills a real position and role of need and they can overpay within reason for his services. He makes those teams a lot better without having to be what he is not…a superstar.
Conversely, his highest use is to stay with the Pirates as a signal that they are ready to pay up for their own players. Overpay for the privilege, as you will still only be locked into what are mostly prime years. A deal is there for the making without breaking the bank, even if the number is quite a bit closer to what Reynolds desires than what the Pirates have offered. He can be a leader for the growing core and the fan base and that will pay off for the team more than what it costs in the contract.
I’m not willing to trade Mayer, Casas, and Yorke for Bryan Reynolds in any situation. Frankly, I don’t think anyone would.
Chaim Bloom in Boston
You take a mortal man
And put him in control
Watch him become a God
Watch people’s heads a’roll…
Just like John Henry
Hired Chaim off the streets
To dance like a marionette
Swaying to the Symphony… of Destruction!
Bloom was in charge of Rays before coming to Boston, not “off the streets”.
NO he wasn’t . He brought Friedman his coffee everyday !!
Friedman worked in the street? Whhaaat?
Why would a team with little more than a prayer for 23 spend $10m or anywhere near that on a player who will not improve the team any great amount when they should reset their taxes. Keep the money in case a deadline deal that improves the team for 24 requires them to also take back another contract?
Dewey, I don’t the Red Sox will. I also don’t believe the Yankees will either. Not because they’re not contending, but Profar is such a minor upgrade and he’d block potentially better moves. He doesn’t really move the needle for either team.
Agreed Lord for Boston. The Yankees though greatly need a left fielder (I’m not sold on Cabrera having a good sophomore season, Hicks is not dependable and putting Stanton in the outfield only makes it more certain he’ll be hurt by May and out 90+ days. They should have paid Bennie (I’m on record for wanting Boston to have traded him a year before they did but I’m also happy for his contract with Chicago). Now the Yankees have to trade again for a left fielder, Reynolds or someone else.
Because their out of all options unless they’re trades to be made plus we all know Bloom goi no to say this was the plan all along
mcase7187…..
Calm down and type.
The overall plan remains in place. The possibilities are forever changing.
Love seeing a team model themselves after the 2018 Rangers
baseball-reference.com/teams/TEX/2018.shtml
Which ones? Many of those will obviously leave and play for other teams, but I don’t see too many on any one particular team from 2018.
Profar and Elvis were big pieces for the Rangers in 2018
He had a 0.940 fielding percentage as a shortstop. I don’t get how scouts labeled him as a 7/8 (well above average with potential to become a gold glover) in fielding. mlb.com/prospects/2013/top100/jurickson-profar-595…
Scouting Grades* (present/future): Hit: 4/6 | Power: 4/5 | Run: 6/6 | Arm: 6/6 | Field: 7/8 | Overall: 6/7
I’d say the hit and power current haven’t changed, and the run and field are both probably at 4. Overall is maybe a 4 or 5.
Things change with players. Austin Meadows was given a 60-hit and 50 power grade, and a 60 fielding tool back in 2017. Francisco Lindor was only given a 40-power grade in 2015 and has now had 5 straight seasons with 20+ home runs (not counting 2020 since it wasn’t a full year) Plus you have to remember that Profar missed two years because of shoulder injuries.
That 60 hit tool may still be applicable. The 50 power, however, may not be.
I definitley wouldn’t say the 60-grade hit tool is still applicable for Meadows. Last three years, he’s batted .231 with a 21.2% strikeout rate. That strikeout rate might not be terrible and he has a 78.8% contact rate, which is slightly above average. 60 means well above average and pushing into the low-end top tier. At this point, he probably has more of a 45, maybe 50 hit tool.
Yeah. Memory is bad. I should have looked at the last few years. I keep thinking he kept up his 2019 pace until recently.
Ranger29 – News flash….2018 was a long time ago in baseball years!
yeah but this is 2023
Profar corrected the yips issue at 2nd. He plays fairly well in the outfield. He has turned into a utility type of player.
Profar is probably worth 10 million or 2/20 with an option.
Harold Castro can play everywhere. Hit for a higher average. plays 2B, CF and SS. He’ll also cost a lot less than 10MM. You don’t pay utility players 10MM.
The Red Sox have their $10m super utility guy in Hernandez. They need a solid shortstop so he only has to play center. Hernandez’s value is his ability to play elsewhere if needed but with this roster, not having to move him around is best. Had this been 19 or 20, with JBJ and Bogie planted at CF and short, he could have been the utility guy. Unless someone steals the CF job in spring training, Hernandez and the team are better off with him in center.
Here is an issue I have had with people on this site. They find ways to disagree with reasonable statements. For those of you who are the hits/wins/rbi type, Profar’s career average is .238, and he only drives in 61 RBIs over 162 games.. That is trash. For those of you who are the WAR and analytics guys, he has an average of 1.2 WAR and -0.8 WAA per season and averages .238/.322/.386, with a 94 OPS+. First base is the only position of all of them over which his career averages aren’t negative for Rtot/year, and his fielding percentages have routinely been trash. Sure, he had a 3.1 WAR year last year, but that was a career year, as well as 1 of only 2 seasons he has had a positive Wins Above Average rating. He sucks in every which way. People need to accept that and move on. He is not a savior, and being a former consensus #1 prospect doesn’t change that. Look at his Bref page and find me reasons if you disagree instead of just stating that you do. Too many uninformed people on this site just trash opinions without having any facts to show for it.
There are ways of making a good point about making a good point about a player without trashing other people’s opinions in the process. This is not one of them.
That may be true, but one can only take so much Profar love.
Degrom: Averaging out stats from entire career stats (2012 to 2022) gives equal weight to every year. 2012 numbers are not at as relevant as 2022.
It’s clear when Profar was 25yo (2018) took a big step forward in his development. His numbers from that time forward is far more indicative of the player he is today.
Using any stats before that time, is just watering down his numbers to make him appear worse than he is. Look at it this way, if 3 years ago, Profar had a steep decline, I doubt you would be using 2012 stats to describe the player he is today.
He is not a savior,
==========================
Did anyone call him a savior? I have no interest because I don’t like who suddenly have a good year. But he could serve a purpose on a lot of teams.
Joe – Agreed, he can serve a purpose, and is certainly better than signing no one! Last year Bloom traded for a 4th outfielder named Jackie Bradley. I think EVERY site I read posted that it was ok if JBJ was not going to be the starter…..well the starting RF never materialized and JBJ sucked. Profar is still better than if Bloom doesn’t fill the hole with someone! (I do NOT want a trade that gives up Mayer, Casas, Blies, Rafaela, so that means it will need to be a free agent).
I wouldn’t want Profar for what it’s going to cost. Give me Adam Duvall who will add some pop back into this lineup. They need it badly.
Fenway – Agree 100%! Profar would be a defensive liability wherever they play him. I would rather have Adam Duvall also.
Yeah and knowing Bloom he will overpay for Duvall like he has for almost ALL his FA signings to date. Go with what we got and Bloom can showcase some of these great prospects he’s added to our system.
I still think a trade for Ha Seong Kim would be the best option, just not sure how we would do that.
Padres have too many position players. If we could somehow trade for Kim, I would do it. The guy has a bit of power and speed, had a 5 WAR year and the Padres still used him as a back up when everyone is healthy. He’s seriously underrated and I think he would be better with consistency.
Ha-Seong is the shizznit. Should have been the Gold Glove winner (no disrespect to Dansby) and his stick is better with each at-bat. He won’t be cheap to acquire, and we don’t necessarily want to trade him. His glove at 2nd (for ’23) caps off a superlative infield defense with an eye towards the No-Shifting. I don’t see him being moved for less than a small fortune, but I suppose we’ve all seen weirder things happen. Best of luck Pedey, hope you guys can contend in that wicked ALE this year.
Touting defense when you moved Kim off SS, so you could put no range XB at SS, falls on deaf ears. Andrus, in his decline, just posted similar defensive numbers to XB’s career year, barely above average.
Bogaerts’ defensive metrics benefited greatly from the shift. The Padres – a team that already had multiple shortstops – will make their up the middle defense weaker by playing Bogaerts at shortstop. But look at the bright side – he doesn’t like to play other positions.
Not my call, obviously, but I would have kept HSK at SS and moved X to 2B now. I’m, also obviously, not sure what was “promised” X during contract discussions, but I have an inherent problem with moving your better defenders for “somebody new and high ticket”… but whatever,, X can have SS for now. Padres are in “win now” mode, so any trade will need to factor in that the Padres do not want prospects alone for HSK. Petco Park has actual Ha-Seong Kim chants, his locker room presence is awesome, his glove work is top shelf, he fits our team chemistry to a T, controlled for 2 more years, his game is ever-growing… it’s going to take a veritable fortune to pry him away.
It’s funny. I mentioned Kim at the beginning of 2022 and everyone else doubted him. His versatility alone makes him a good player
If Kim is popular (sells tickets), and helps the team win, both on the field and in the clubhouse, why would you 1. Move him from his best position, or 2. Look to trade him? If you’re actually in a win now mode, you don’t wait to move XB to a position he can handle. He’s getting paid the big bucks, he should have been told at the time of the signing that the manager would determine where on the IF he would play!
Great questions, stymeed.
1. IDK why. I wouldn’t. Perhaps we’re both assuming that X starts Game 1 at SS, too. Maybe he doesn’t win the job at ST.
2. That’s just it, we’re not looking to trade him. You guys called us, haha!
I hope HSK is the Padre SS for the majority of games in the upcoming Season, bar none. X could be an Xcellent 2 bagger for us, and we’re excited to root for him! Cheers bud, all the best.
Ha Seong Kim and Trent Grisham for John Schrieber and Ceddanne Rafaela. If need be add a number 10-20 prospect in the organization. I could care less.
I’d say no deal. There is absolutely no reason why the Padres would trade 2 of their Gold Glove-caliber up-the-middle starting defenders for a reliever and a hit-or-miss undersized prospect. A strong package along with an additional Boston Top 10, perhaps… but SD is in it to win it right now.
Pretty much every team may be interested in every available player. Understand this is a rumor site but damn, so many times it is just BS.
Maybe this website is not up your alley then. Or maybe baseball is not your sport? Can we interest you in Motorcross or Dune Buggy racing ?
Don’t forget Jelle’s Marble Racing!!
Go Savage Speeders!!
Personally I’m a Bumblebees fan and I’m excited for next year because we can’t fail the qualifiers
It was also mentioned on another site as well when I researched Red Sox.
Bear in mind, this site scours multiple other websites to get their information. And they’re not secretive about it; they cite sources all the time.
Red Sox happy with their investment in Story last year? Only 117 million and 5 yrs to go, and now talking abt Profar? Used to be a top organization- not anymore. Closer to 5th in AlEast than 1st, or even 2nd for that matter.
Would love to see jurickson in a reds uniform. He would be the second set outfielder in a mostly young team. Also could provide some infield depth if needed. Seems pretty affordable for cincy. Wouldn’t be suprised if The Redlegs are at least checking in on Profar. Also Elvis Andrus could be a nice pickup to fill in in the infield.
Andrus > Profar
Not sayin much they both suck
Not a lot left to choose from. Boston won’t say it, but this is a rebuild year. How much trade capital do you want to spend for a stop gap replacement, when it really won’t matter in the standings? Fill the spot with Andrus or Iglesias, and move on.
They are addicted to mediocrity it seems.
Meaning Cincinnati Kruk?
This is worse than medocrity these guys just don’t make much hard contact
After watching Profar for the last few years his best attributes are defense and speed. He had some miscues in the out field but not many. At this point there’s no way he should be an infielder like many have posted. His biggest problem is his career offensive year is what he should be doing every year. Last season proved he’s a 4th out fielder and a pinch runner.
Both played for the same team to.
230 million dollar payroll, and we’re dumpster diving for SS AND 2B.
What a disaster.
I think Elvis Andrus is one of the more underrated players of the past decade plus. If you really look at his numbers, with 2-3 more good years he could be a legit HOF contender. He is already at 2000 hits (well 1997 anyway) and I think if he gets to 2500 he could have a legit chance to maybe get into the Hall one day.
Elvis is better than what we have now, that’s for sure.
My hinges are creaking again….
They should be interested in anybody who can walk and chew gum.
The New York marlins?
Sign Tommy Pham to play outfield
Bloom is getting fired at the end of the season.
Buzz Killington;
LOL
That’s what you guys rote the last 2 years.
As a Padres honk, Profar has gotten a little to big on himself. 2yr’s $20mill, nah brah! He’s going to find himself competing for a gig in the Spring.
At the start of ‘22, he was a temp fix in left and ended up having a somewhat decent 1st half. Way better defensively than offensively. He obviously has speed on the base path. But, he’s become a sh@t starter with an unfounded sense of arrogance. That’s they type of nonsense that causes you to become a cancer in a clubhouse. Along with feeling disrespected by not getting the contract you think you deserve.
If Profar’s not careful he’s going to have a hard 2023 bouncing around multiple ball clubs and not getting much playing time.
Andrus would be the better option. Profar at this point is an Outfielder, maybe a part-time 1B, but at best an emergency middle Infielder.
At this point maybe they should see if Refsnyder can play even passable 2B
No, not Profar, not Andrus, get the one who perks up when he’s on the Red Sox, Jose Iglesias.
O yay
Let’s see how bad the Red Sox can be and still go over the luxury tax!
I’m looking for the Mets to miss the playoffs… that will be a hoot.
They were 25 games over .500 playing against the Nationals, Marlins and Phillies. That accounted for 41 wins.
It’s not too hard to imagine…
Will Diaz have another career year?
Marte, Escobar and Cahna are 34 years old.
Vogelsbach and Navarez are your DH and starting catcher?
Will JV and Scherzer act their age?
Will Senga make the transition to the states?
The average age of last years team was 31 and this year they added older players.
Like I said, this will be fun to watch… it’s either like the Globetrotters out there performing or it’ll crash and burn with numerous Ben Gay jokes.
Phillies should sign Profar. Give him 375-425 at bats and play him all over the field to give others a rest. Has speed. Has some pop. Decent glove. Sign me up.
Assuming he doesn’t want a 1 year deal, I don’t see much sense investing in Profar if it’s going to be a down year. If left field is already taken then his defense will bring down his value. Andrus should be cheaper ($5 mill?) and thus is easily disposable due to lousy performance or an emerging prospect.
The Red Sox might be a better team without Xander and if they sign the above two
Xander was not that great last year
Xander almost won the silver slugger last year….do you even bother googling stats before coming out the side of your mouth with b.s.?
100 MLB players hit more home runs than Bogaerts in 2022. 100 !
Andrus was one of them. Of course there’s more to offense than hitting home runs…
SMH, his power was down
He was not his usual productive self
And how was what I sad BS? it was not outrageous,
Double SMH
Yep, just an all star, 9th in MVP voting and a silver slugger award. Not that great. Only a 131 OPS+. .307/ .377/ .456 splits… what a slacker.
He wasn’t his usual self
His numbers were not as eye popping as his new contract
Xander hit over .300 had the best defensive season of his career and was worth 5.8 War, simply put he was one of the best overall shortstops in the big leagues. Oh and he did all this battling injuries never complaining answering the bell even when he was injured he may not have had his normal power but he was easily a top 5 or better shortstop in all of baseball last year. Lefty I guess the only thing you were remotely correct about Xander is his power was down didn’t seem to effect his value much though he was easily one of the best shortstops last year and no Andrés is a huge downgrade over Xander.
His “best” defensive season was barely average. He power will diminish even more without the wall. Andrus is not as good, but he is available. How he compares to XB is irrelevant, as XB is not an option.
Stymee, I was simply pointing out that Xander had a really good season. I pointed out the numbers that refutes lefty’s assertion and that Andrus is a huge downgrade over Bogey. All completely true and irrefutable.
Stymee by the way Xander is more of a line drive hitter and a smart one I’m guessing adjusts at Pecto. When he was injured last year he went the other more and hit for average. Leaving Fenway probably costs him doubles but it probably won’t cost home runs but San Diego is a tough place to hit in so it’s possible he struggles some at least at first.
Also interested in Rick rooster, nomar and Stephen drew
Partial to spike Owen or Jackie Gutierrez…
Domingo Ramos!
Breaking news, Red Sox sign Rico Petrocelli to a 13 year or life time contract, what ever happens first.
Javy Baez for a couple jockstraps?
OK, I see the New York Rangers reference now…
Odor, Gallo, IKF, Calhoun, Trevino… I wonder why the Yankees picked the Rangers as their AAA team? Much better choices out there.
What would you like on your pizza? Dust or cobwebs?
Not much choice there.
Andrus is a joy to watch, one of the best personalities in baseball.
He took a few years to get back to normal from injury. I think a small contract in him would be well rewarded.
Hey maybe Boston could make a trade with the Brewers for Urias, Winkers and Tellez
Have you seen him screwing around with pop-ups when he played with Beltre? Some of us hated him making a mockery of certain situations. He would flip his bat sometimes on a popup. I found it quite repulsive.
They should give Andrelton Simmons a call
Sign Elvis or Iggy–no wanna-be SS. Keep Kiki in CF.
The Sox let Tommy go–I liked his play and he did a decent job in LF.
Back in the 70’s and 80’s Kansas City was the younger ‘bro’ of the Yanks.
I’d say look for a trade partner for Sale–maybe DD would bite on a 50 % discount for another Pivetta/Seabold type return to the Sox????
I’d inquire on Nick Madrigal.
Don’t get anyone. Who cares about bringing in another human heartbeat to stand to the left of second base. That Jeter Downes DFA looks horrible right now. Knowing what they knew about Story, knowing they weren’t going to convince Bogaerts to take a discount, and the team’s lack of major league capable talent up the middle, this looks even worse. Don’t give me that Downes was an AAAA player, I know that. We are going to win less than 80 games. Downes would have been utterly unspectacular, but he could have filled the position. Who knows, maybe he figures out some things, or improves enough to add something to his game and play at replacement level.
We are talking about spending money, or trading prospects for players that other teams see as replaceable, and some of those teams are bad. If they are replaceable level talent than just use in-house guys. I don’t mind watching one of our guys from the minors hit .220 with 5 home runs rather than bring in a guy to hit .240 with 7 home runs. Not when the end result will be 73 wins instead of 78 wins. At the end of the season not many will look back and say “I am glad we got (insert mediocre player) to fill that void at short. It made all the difference. They practically got us within 15 games of the wild card.”
How does the Downs DFA look horrible? He’s a bat first middle infielder that can’t hit in AAA.. Valdez is MUCH better and on the 40 man. .. sorry man but a guy that can’t hit .200 on AAA has no place in the majors
I never implied Downes would be worth a damn. In fact, I specifically said, that if he does well he will probably score as league average. I didn’t even give Downes that. The point was, what does it matter? Why pay or go out for a guy that will most likely grade as replacement level. Do you want to trade a single prospect for that return? Do you think that will be the missing piece that allows us to get to .500? I just don’t see a point in spending or trading anyone to bring in a player.
My post was about staying in house and sucking it up for another year, because we are going to be sucking it up for another year. At least in house we can FORCE some middle infield guys to either stick or know with some certainty if they are worth remaining in house. If you know of better option within the organization, I have no problem with anyone that owns a glove playing short next year. I could also care less if we continue to use a super utility guy every day in center. We are talking about plus or minus a couple of wins in a season that would be called successful if we are still playing meaningful games at the all-star break or later.
The best fit is leaving Hernandez in CF and signing Andrus. Andrus is a natural SS, and Hernandez is a near gold glove defensive outfielder. The Red Sox have Arroyo and several AAA options at 2B if they only sign one player.
As a guy who is considered as always negative this is not the time to be negative or to worry about how the team will do in 2023. That’s already been decided, they will be terrible. The degree of terrible might be impacted by the 2B or SS that gets added but TERRIBLE will still be the primary moniker.
So lets be positive. Grab ANYONE for ONE YEAR. Heck, play Devers at SS. It simply doesn’t matter. The focus right now should be the future and who will be playing the infield in 2 years. That way in 2 years we can have the young core players aligned with their long term positions and then it becomes a matter of time before they turn into outstanding players and make the team great again. Yes, we are no less than 3 years away from having a competitive team. Live with it!!!. Bloom supporters, it’s on you guys!! He sucked and still does.
We still only have Mayer at SS, Yorke at 2B, Casas at 1B as the young core of the future. If the team is to win Devers must go to DH. That leaves a need for a 3B, LF, CF and RF. Yoshida was a waste of money because he’s a DH and Devers got paid too much money to trade so Yoshida has nowhere to play in the future. He needs to be traded by the new GM before his ineptitudes are fully revealed on the playing field.
Bloom simply needs to add cheap players with 1 year contracts so a new architect can come in and design the team of the future. Bloom failed miserably because he had a great foundation and chose to tear down the house. The house is now down and there are no blueprints for the future other than Mayer and Yorke. Casas is a Dombrowski guy so he’s likely to be traded.
So as much fun as it is for some to debate these ridiculously bad choices, they are meaningless. 2023 needs to produce a top 5 draft pick in 2024, a new GM and a new Manager. That’s the bottom line. The future can’t be molded until the finger painter is fired!!
Pulled I ask you how do you know if Yoshida can’t play left in Fenway? Have you ever seen him play? I haven’t and because of this I don’t comment on how he is going to look in MLB baseball. The fact is you don’t know calling him worthless is silly when you don’t have a clue.
Rafael Devers was basically league average at third his .964 fielding percentage was middle of the pack. He only had 5 fielding errors and 9 throwing errors. He worked hard on his defense between the end of 2021 and the start of 2022. He’s plenty athletic and he lost a lot of weight between the end of 2021 and the start of 2022. He has been paid now so let’s see how he responds. Does he let his weight get away from him he clearly has to pay attention or does he double down and continue to slim down only time will tell. The bottom line he wasn’t the Butcher of Boston last year at third and he will be throwing to Casas who can really pick it at third and is a large target. I think he will be ok defensively at third and with the way he hits that’s good enough for an overall well above average third baseman.
The rest of what you said is right it really doesn’t matter who they add at this point should just go add a shortstop and go with what they have see if Arroyo can stay healthy and be a legit option at second, get Duran playing time see if he can figure out big league pitching and increase his trade value, make Dalbec the infield utility guy get him at bats see if he can figure out how not to swing at sliders off the plate. The Red Sox also have a lot of AAA pitchers so when one of Sale or Paxton or both breakdown play the kids let’s see what they have. The bottom line Bloom shouldn’t be trading any minor league talent or young guys at all. Just go with what you have after signing a shortstop. It doesn’t really matter.
Have you ever seen him play? I haven’t and because of this I don’t comment on how he is going to look in MLB baseball.
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That’s what I love about the haters. KD has never seen the guy, and knows nothing about him. But it won’t stop him from commenting on him or hating him.
JoeBrady – Always willing to jump in and say something stupid. I don’t need to see this guy when I read scouting reports, evaluate his numbers and read what people in Japan are saying about him. Trying to cheap shot me is so typical of your little mind.
One more time dbag, pointing out a weakness based on facts is not an act of hatred. What’s wrong with you? Why is hatred so foremost in your mind? You may want to seek help on that issue.
Comment on players not other writers you jackass..
Bruin1012 – Going back to your old way? Too bad.
I don’t need to see him play to evaluate him. His numbers speak for themselves.
Here is an excerpt from one of the many scouting reports I read on him
“Yoshida’s value is tied almost exclusively to his bat. He’s a below-average runner and below-average defender in left field whose range is severely limited. He plays hard and catches what is hit to him, but he struggles to reach balls in the gap or down the line. He has below-average arm strength that limits him to left field”
Here is another scouting report from Japan:
While Yoshida has proven everything he can with the bat in NPB, the rest of his game has some questions. Defensively he is likely limited to only left field. Yoshida’s size makes him too small for first base, where longer reach is desired to catch errant throws from infielders.
His arm can also be a liability in right field, where he has played just over 600 innings since 2018, when we began tracking NPB data. In that time Yoshida has allowed runners to take an extra base (for example, go first to third on a single) on 64% of their opportunities in right field. Yoshida played only 23 innings in right field in 2021, and did not play there at all in 2022.
As a left fielder, teams could look for a way to maximize his abilities defensively. Over the last five years, Yoshida has totaled -15 DRS in 3,103 innings in left, averaging -3 DRS in around 600 innings per year (we judge NPB players using MLB out probabilities).
So am I comfortable saying he’s a crap left fielder? Yes. You should be too. Defensively he is worthless as I noted. I didn’t suggest his offense is worthless, just his defense so stick that in your pipe and smoke it!!
Devers has been in the majors since 2017. In 2022 he was the closest to league average that he has ever been at .964 but as I have pointed out billions of times to people like you his misplayed balls are nearly double his errors because the scorekeepers are being paid to make his numbers look good. Baseball reference records the facts and I just stated them because as a guy who needs to see things you can look up each ball recorded as a single to 3B and watch him not get an error on a ball he should have retired the batter.
So, ONE of EIGHT seasons ONLY 3 points below league average does NOT make for an adequate fielder. That’s a moronic statement on your part.
He was 50 points below league average in 2017, 32 below in 2018, 9 below in 2019, 67 below in 2020, 12 below in 2021 and then 3 below in 2022. Considering the aid provided by the score keepers, he actually fielded better in 2021 since the percentage of misplayed balls continues to grow.
Why should any team play a guy who has been under league average by 20 points a season for 6 seasons? It’s not fair to the pitching staff. It’s stupid baseball.
Well at least you were smart enough to agree that whatever Bloom does it needs to not impact the future by spending money into the future or giving up prospects. One for three. Batting .333.
I’m not going to change your mind KD but Devers isn’t a good defensive third baseman but he’s nowhere as bad as you claim. I decided to look at Devers errors from last year as usual your theories are wrong. If you look at his errors he made 9 at home to 5 on the road. This completely blows your he has a lot more errors at home because they cover them up unless you want to make the argument he is a much better defender on the road. Nope your wrong again please argue your point that they save so many errors at home. The kid is just 26 it’s entirely possible he continues to improve defensively which he clearly did last year. I’m not saying he’s going to make us forget about Chapman, Hayes, Arenado, etc. He just isn’t as bad as you say he is and he improved to pretty close to league average last year maybe slightly below. Clearly with his well above average bat he is valuable at third.
Pulled I just speak facts and the fact is you haven’t watched Yoshida play so you don’t know. Here’s a fact Fenway does not require a great athlete to play left. It requires someone who can read the wall well is cerebral. Now I’m not entirely sure if Yoshida is an intelligent guy who will be able to play the caroms well off the monster but guess what neither do you and that’s a fact until we see him in left and how he handles it it’s just conjecture at this point WE DONT KNOW.
Actually no it’s consistently you KD who jumps in and puts his foot in his mouth with stupid statements.
Bruin1012 – For half a decade you’ve been saying Devers isn’t a bad fielder and you’ve been wrong. Now your ONLY excuse for saying Yoshida is fine for LF is that you haven’t seen him in person? Seriously?
All the stacks of scouting reports from both Japan and US sources and his stats aren’t enough? That’s just you arguing for the sake of arguing!! You like to do that!! You did with Devers and were wrong. You did it with Bloom and were wrong and you did it with Cora and you were wrong.
Don’t be so stubborn. If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, walks like a duck and tastes like a duck….. it’s very likely to be a duck. Same for Yoshida not being able to field. Fenway or no Fenway, he’s another Devers. He will hurt the pitching staff. Why can’t you support the team as a whole in your opinions. You seem to jump on players who aren’t cutting it and try to justify their existence whether it hurts the team or not.
If you want to be ridiculous and hang on to the idea that seeing is believing and all data and feedback from expert scouts don’t matter….. Fine be stubborn and childish. The visual proof will be there for you soon enough.
You know how you know when you’ve been following Bloom too long and believing in him? When you start rationalizing why an expensive player that doesn’t fit in Boston could fit if a dozen conditions happen.
Maybe Yoshida won’t be so bad on defense!?. Those aren’t exactly the words all fans want to speak after paying a guy $18MM for 5 years. Wake up to reality!! Admit it. He’s not the right guy for the job and costs way too much money to be a lead-off hitter that can’t steal and isn’t a good base runner.
As far as putting a foot in my mouth? What a weird thing to say after I completely documented why Yoshida can’t field. Stats and scouting reports from both the US and Japan and that’s putting my foot in my mouth?
Face it. You’ve been proven wrong yet again. Walk away with some dignity.
Bruin1012 – One last point about your stubborn attitude to my responses.
Devers doesn’t have to play 3B so the fact that he hurts the pitching staff should be a consideration for where he plays. DH is his natural position since he has hands of stone, an arm that is erratic, no concept of footwork, a slow first step and every step after that (takes him nearly 90 feet to get to full velocity unlike most 3Bs) and he can’t judge how to catch the hop in front of his body like most players learn in little league. Catching a ball on your feet or off to your left or right because you couldn’t judge the distance of the bounce is a fairly fundamental skill he is missing. That’s why he makes so many errors and misplays thanks to the friendly score keepers.
So when you state that Devers is not a good fielder but he’s an outstanding hitter I completely agree with you. When you follow it up with he’s an acceptable 3B we disagree.
Also, the reason he fields better on the road than Fenway has more to do with the field dimensions than proving a point about his fielding. You should know that Fenway has more balls going toward the monster than in other parks. Where is Devers? Yep towards the left field wall. If you are asking if he gets breaks from opponents score keepers? Check the data. How many hits to 3B are documented on the road versus at home in Baseball Reference? If I am bored some day I will count them and let you know.
Last point, if I point out that Devers has a fielding percentage of .941 after 1866 fielding chances in 6 seasons in the MLB. And I point out he had a .937 fielding percentage after 967 fielding chances in 5 minor league seasons and he had a .878 fielding percentage after 74 fielding chances in 2 seasons in other countries I am not exaggerating how bad he is. I am stating facts that reflect very poorly on his fielding. It’s not an opinion. It’s data supporting my thesis that Devers sucks on defense and has since he was a 16 year old in the Dominican Republic Academy. Is his .941 percentage at the MLB level significantly better than his .937 in the minors? NOPE. Has he hurt his pitchers since he joined the Red Sox organization and started playing 3B? YEP. Should he have been moved to DH long ago? YEP. That is an opinion. All the rest are facts!!!
So stop personalizing this as if I hate Devers. I don’t. I hate how he plays defense because it hurts the team and specifically the pitching staff. I pitched with bad infielders behind me so I know how infuriating it is when a bad fielder is allowed to play a position they are not qualified for due to politics. If I were a Red Sox pitcher I would lobby to Devers daily to move to DH.
Doesn’t seem like Profar provides enough offense to be a one position guy.
Andrus or Iglesias would be a decent stop gap for Boston.
Or take IKF, please.
Red Sox showing interest in Lou Merloni…