Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies Face Key Offseason Decisions

The Boston Red Sox are approaching a crucial offseason that may see significant changes to their roster. Following an uneven 2024 season, in which they concluded with an 81-81 record, the team has shown improvements compared to the last two seasons. This offseason, the Red Sox are expected to actively engage in the free-agent and trade markets. However, this could also mean the departure of key players.

One prominent name linked with a potential exit from Boston is star closer Kenley Jansen. Jansen, who has been with the Red Sox for the past two years, will enter free agency this winter. Despite persistent trade rumors, the team retained him throughout the past season. Speculation exists regarding Jansen’s willingness to return, but there is little concrete evidence to support these claims.

Kansas City Royals’ social metrics on Bleacher Report have identified Jansen as a target for several teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, as reported by Zachary Rymer. “It was a good year for the Phillies bullpen, which ultimately ranked sixth in fWAR,” Rymer stated. He noted that the Phillies could consider Jansen as a replacement, especially with current pitchers Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estévez heading into free agency.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies are currently focused on their National League Division Series against the New York Mets, with the series tied at one game each. Despite a strong season, the Phillies will need to assess their bullpen post-season. With both Hoffman and Estévez set to enter free agency, questions loom about who will return for the 2025 campaign.

Rymer suggested that the Phillies may prioritize retaining Hoffman due to affordability, whereas the signing of Estévez might prove challenging, given his projected contract demands. Estévez’s return to Philadelphia seems uncertain, as he is predicted to secure over $69 million over five seasons.

Overall, both Boston and Philadelphia face pivotal decisions in the offseason, which could shape their team structures moving forward. The focus remains on strengthening their rosters while managing financial considerations in the competitive MLB landscape.