BOSTON RED SOX (93-69), 1ST, AL EAST
uSeason snapshot: The Red Sox rebounded from two consecutive last-place finishes to win the division for the first time since 2013, when they went on to win the World Series. They were led by their offense, keyed by MVP candidate
in his final season and a nucleus of exciting young players that includes another MVP candidate, right fielder
had a nice bounceback season after being limited by injuries in 2015. The Red Sox got several nice surprises, including knuckleballer
a first-time All-Star before getting hurt while serving as a pinch-runner; catcher Cy Young Award candidate who went 22-4 with a 3.15 ERA; and who had 30 homers and 111 RBI for the team that originally signed him in 2000.
uWhat now: With Ortiz retiring, Boston has a tremendous void to fill in the clubhouse and in the lineup. Ramirez could take over as the designated hitter if he doesn’t stay at first base. Is third baseman
who lost his starting job in spring training because of poor conditioning and only appeared in three games because of injury, in the mix? If not, what do they do with him and the $53 million they owe him over the next three years? Is
who beat out Sandoval in the spring, the third baseman? Is Leon the real deal? With Porcello, Wright and the rotation should be in good shape.
uFree The bullpen might need a makeover. who will be 42 in April and missed nearly two months because of a chest muscle strain, can be a free agent along with
who struggled at times this year, and Boston will have to decide whether to pick up a $13.5 million option on who was demoted to the bullpen for much of the season. It likely won’t pick up a $3.75 million option on catcher
uProspects
Top prospect who got a record $31.5 million signing bonus in 2015, made the jump from Class AA and struggled. He should get more time in the minors, but at what position? He’s primarily a second baseman, but Pedroia isn’t going anywhere. Catcher who has struggled since having Tommy John elbow surgery in 2015, could be back in the mix.
Maureen Mullen