Felger & Mazz: Thoughts on the Boston Red Sox GM search
The Boston Red Sox continue their search for a new general manager, but things aren’t going too well as many people have turned down the opportunity to interview with the Red Sox for the job. On Wednesday’s Felger and Mazz, Mazz gave his thoughts on the latest in the GM search.
How many candidates have turned down the Red Sox?
Mazz: Nine people have said “Thanks, but no thanks…”.
Felger: To the Red Sox.
Mazz: Correct. Nine people. Now, I think that this is this was part of the dilemma with keeping Cora here, too. And there were a lot of reasons for it, you know, primarily the instability of the job start there. But on top of it, now I’ve got to come in and work with a manager who clearly stabbed the last GM in the back? So now you have trigger trigger finger ownership and a manager who has more power than the GM? You want me to commit? This is why. Like, they’re going to end up having to hire Eddie Romero. And again, I think under the circumstances it might be the best that they can do. So to me, given what they were going to do with Cora and keep Cora, that clearly they were headed down this kind of road, I think that’s where they’re headed. That it’s going to be Romero and Cora. It’s going to be their baby. And if they work well together, fine. No problem. But it also ties into the first thing we talked about, which is the money. It’s not going to make a damn bit of difference if you don’t spend money and go get some players. Like you need both. The whole thing is like, Wow! Wow! Really, you look at the whole thing and go, holy crap. The Phillies and the Rangers are spending out the nose. They’re in it. You’re not. And no one wants to come here. That’s funny, right? Fix that. So they’re just not going to have any choices, which might be a good thing because they’d screw up the choices anyway.
Listen to Felger and Mazz from 2-6 every Monday-Friday on 98.5 The Sports Hub, with hosts Mike Felger, Tony “Mazz” Massarotti, and Jim Murray “Big Jim”. You can listen live in the Sports Hub App and subscribe to their podcasts here. Follow @FelgerAndMazz on Twitter to keep up with the show!
Stewart: My 2024 Red Sox offseason plan
The Boston Red Sox wrapped up their 2023 campaign on Sunday with a win and finished their 2023 season at 78 and 84 good for last place in the American League Eastern Division. Same as last season. The Red Sox are going to have to make some major moves this offseason to turn things around from their last place finish.
As of October 2nd, 2023, here is a list of notable free agents for 2023-24 from MLB.com:
Catcher: Travis d’Arnaud (club option), Mitch Garver, Yan Gomes (club option), Yasmani Grandal, Omar Narváez, Mike Zunino
First base: Joey Votto (club option), Rhys Hoskins, Max Muncy (club option), Josh Bell (opt-out), Brandon Belt, C.J. Cron, Eric Hosmer
Second base: Whit Merrifield (mutual option), Jorge Polanco (club option), Adam Frazier, Jon Berti (club option), Kolten Wong, Jonathan Schoop
Third base: Matt Chapman, Justin Turner (opt-out), Josh Donaldson (mutual option), Eduardo Escobar (club option), Evan Longoria, Brian Anderson, Gio Urshela, Joey Wendle
Shortstop: Tim Anderson (club option), Javier Báez (opt-out), Elvis Andrus, Brandon Crawford, Amed Rosario, Paul DeJong (club option), Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Adalberto Mondesi
Outfield: Cody Bellinger, Teoscar Hernández, Michael Conforto (opt-out), Joey Gallo, Kevin Kiermaier, Joc Pederson, Jorge Soler (opt-out), Harrison Bader, Andrew McCutchen, Charlie Blackmon, Michael Brantley, Tommy Pham, Mark Canha (club option), Adam Duvall, Randal Grichuk, David Peralta, AJ Pollock, Jurickson Profar, Hunter Renfroe, Robbie Grossman, Max Kepler (club option), Wil Myers, Victor Robles (club option), Eddie Rosario (club option), Michael A. Taylor, Jesse Winker
Designated hitter: Shohei Ohtani, J.D. Martinez, Trey Mancini (opt-out), Matt Carpenter, Nelson Cruz, Jesús Aguilar
Starting pitcher: Shohei Ohtani, Clayton Kershaw, Aaron Nola, Blake Snell, Julio Urías, Eduardo Rodriguez (opt-out), Lucas Giolito, Sonny Gray, Marcus Stroman (opt-out), Jordan Montgomery, Jack Flaherty, Lance Lynn (club option), Kenta Maeda, Charlie Morton (club option), Alex Cobb (club option), Kyle Hendricks (club option), Seth Lugo (player option), Rich Hill, Corey Kluber (club option), Hyun Jin Ryu, Luis Severino, Zack Greinke, Johnny Cueto (club option), Carlos Carrasco, Mike Clevinger (mutual option), Germán Márquez (club option), Wade Miley (mutual option), Noah Syndergaard, Michael Wacha (club and player options), Andrew Heaney (opt-out), Tyler Mahle, Sean Manaea (opt-out), Frankie Montas, Jake Odorizzi, Ross Stripling (opt-out), Alex Wood
Relief pitcher: Josh Hader, Liam Hendriks (club option), Aroldis Chapman, Craig Kimbrel, David Robertson, Jordan Hicks, José Alvarado, Adam Ottavino (player option), Blake Treinen, Andrew Chafin, Mark Melancon (mutual option), Matt Moore, Michael Fulmer, Luis García, Yimi García (club option), Chad Green (conditional player option), Héctor Neris (club option), Matt Barnes (club option), Anthony Bass, Dylan Floro, Daniel Hudson (club option), José Leclerc (club option), Alex Reyes (club option), Ryne Stanek, Hunter Strickland (club option), Kirby Yates (club option)
If those free agent options don’t move the needle for you, there are always trades to be made. Enjoy my list of Red Sox moves I’d like to see happen this offseason.
Add Dustin Pedroia to the Field Staff
Before the game, current Red Sox players and staff wore t-shirts with ‘Dustin’ on the front in Red Sox font. Here’s Pedroia with former teammate Alex Cora.
I can see a baseball world where Dustin Pedroia becomes manager of the Boston Red Sox so let’s start that process in the 2024 season. I think Pedroia has great communication skills, a good feel for the game in real time and would be an outstanding daily spokesman for the team.
Throughout his career, Pedroia was known for his exceptional defensive skills, agility, and strong work ethic. Standing at just 5 feet 9 inches tall, he defied expectations and became a key player for the Red Sox. Pedroia’s offensive contributions were equally impressive, as he consistently displayed a high batting average and a knack for getting on base.
Pedroia’s achievements include being named the American League Rookie of the Year in 2007 and winning the AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2008. He was also a four-time Gold Glove Award winner and a four-time All-Star. Pedroia played a crucial role in helping the Red Sox win two World Series championships in 2007 and 2013.
Unfortunately, Pedroia’s career was plagued by injuries, particularly to his knee. Despite multiple surgeries and rehabilitation efforts, he was unable to make a full recovery and announced his retirement from professional baseball in February 2021.
Off the field, Pedroia was known for his leadership qualities and his dedication to the game. He was highly respected by teammates, coaches, and fans alike for his passion and commitment to the sport. Pedroia’s impact on the Red Sox organization and his contributions to the game of baseball will be remembered for years to come.
Kim Ng named Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer
General manager Kimberly J. Ng of the Miami Marlins before the game...
General manager Kimberly J. Ng of the Miami Marlins before the game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on May 05, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images
If Alex Cora isn’t ready to move into Baseball Operations full time and there won’t be an internal promotion, current Miami Marlins general manager Kim Ng would be an excellent hire to work with Alex Cora on player movement.
She is the first female GM in Major League Baseball history. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Kim Ng has held various executive positions with different teams, including the Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her extensive knowledge of the game, strong leadership skills, and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in baseball.
Sign Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Yoshinobu Yamamoto of Team Japan pitches during the 2023 World...
Yoshinobu Yamamoto of Team Japan pitches during the 2023 World Baseball Classic Semifinal game against Team Mexico at loanDepot Park on Monday, March 20, 2023 in Miami, Florida. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images
Yoshinobu Yamamoto feels like the signing that every Red Sox fan wants to happen and thinks can happen. BUT What would a contract look like to sign the 25-year old right handed pitcher for the 2024 season and beyond?
My best guess, 7-10 years in length and $200-$300 million dollars in cash value with an opt-out in the contract. Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitched a no-hitter early in September for the Orix Buffaloes with Yankees general manager Brian Cashman sitting in the front row.
For context of what a Yamamoto contract offer from the Yankees might look like, think of when Cashman signed Masahiro Tanaka to a 7 year, $155 million contract, which was the fifth-largest deal ever given to a major league pitcher in 2014.
Trade with the Brewers
Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers up to bat during the game...
Christian Yelich of the Milwaukee Brewers up to bat during the game against the St. Louis Cardinals at American Family Field on September 26, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images
If the Brewers are looking for salary relief, former MVP outfielder Christian Yelich could be had and Milwaukee would add either pitcher Brandon Woodruff or pitcher Corbin Burnes for a package of top prospects with outfielder Jarren Duran.
Yelich began his MLB career with the Miami Marlins in 2013, where he quickly showcased his exceptional hitting abilities and all-around skills. However, it was during his tenure with the Brewers that Yelich truly emerged as a superstar. Since joining the team in 2018, he has consistently been a force to be reckoned with at the plate.
Yelich’s offensive prowess is evident in his impressive statistics. He has consistently maintained a high batting average, displayed power with his home runs, and showcased his speed on the basepaths. In 2018, Yelich won the National League (NL) Most Valuable Player (MVP) award after leading the league in batting average, slugging percentage, and on-base plus slugging (OPS).
Beyond his offensive contributions, Yelich is also known for his solid defense and versatility in the outfield. He has earned a Gold Glove Award for his exceptional fielding skills.
Off the field, Yelich is highly regarded for his sportsmanship and philanthropy. He actively engages in charitable endeavors and has made a positive impact on the communities he serves.
Christian Yelich’s talent, consistency, and dedication to the game have made him one of the most exciting players to watch in MLB. His contributions to the Milwaukee Brewers and the sport as a whole have solidified his status as one of the game’s elite players.
Trade Alex Verdugo
Apr 12, 2023; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Boston Red Sox right fielder Alex Verdugo (99) looks on against the Tampa Bay Rays during the third inning at Tropicana Field. Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Trading Outfielder Alex Verdugo should have happened at the trade deadline a few months ago but then Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom whiffed in a major way. I believe that Alex Cora wanted Verdugo gone and his CBO failed in making that happen. I really don’t care what the Red Sox get back for Verdugo because getting Verdugo out of Boston I believe is an addition by subtraction.
If you’re worried about who will play right field at Fenway Park, I feel the Red Sox have that covered with prospects Ceddanne Rafaela and Wilyer Abreu. Both can play all three outfield spots at a high defensive level and both have shown the ability to be major league hitters.
Sign Whit Merrifield
May 1, 2018, Boston, MA, USA: Kansas City Royals right fielder Jorge Soler is greeted by left fielder Alex Gordon and second baseman Whit Merrifield after hitting a three run home run during the 13th inning against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. (Photo Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports)
Whit Merrifield has been an All-Star multiple times, he’s gotten MVP votes and he can play multiple positions on the diamond if needed. I would make him the Red Sox primary second baseman. In my world, having an up the middle of Wong, Story, Merrifield and Yelich would be top 5 in the American League.
If this were 5 years ago, this would be number 1 or 2 in the Majors and we’d be talking about 3 of the 4 getting MVP votes.
Sign Rhys Hoskins
Philadelphia Phillies First baseman Rhys Hoskins at bat during the...
Philadelphia Phillies First baseman Rhys Hoskins at bat during the spring training game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Detroit Tigers on March 23, 2023 at BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater,... Get premium, high resolution news photos at Getty Images
I’ve heard Rhys Hoskins’s name mentioned by both Colly and Tyler Milliken on Jarred Carrabis’ Name Redacted Podcast and I think he would be a great fit as a right handed DH, first baseman, once in a long while left fielder.
Hoskins made his MLB debut in 2017 and quickly became a fan favorite due to his ability to hit home runs with consistency. In his rookie season, he hit an impressive 18 home runs in just 50 games, setting a new record for the fastest player to reach that milestone. This remarkable start to his career earned him a nomination for the National League Rookie of the Year award.
Since then, Hoskins has continued to be a key player for the Phillies, providing a reliable source of power in their lineup. He has consistently hit over 20 home runs each season, showcasing his ability to drive the ball out of the park. Additionally, he has shown improvement in his overall offensive game, displaying a good eye for pitches and drawing walks.
Defensively, Hoskins has primarily played as a first baseman but has also seen time in the outfield. While he may not be known for his defensive prowess, he has shown improvement and versatility in his fielding abilities.
Off the field, Hoskins is known for his strong work ethic and leadership qualities. He is highly regarded by his teammates and coaches for his dedication to the game and his willingness to help others improve.
Sign Andrew Heaney
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 29: Andrew Heaney #28 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches during the second inning of a game against the San Diego Padres at PETCO Park on September 29, 2022 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
I’ve always been a fan of Andrew Heaney’s potential as a left handed starter who was a former top 10 draft pitch of the Miami Marlins in 2012. Heaney had a decent 2023 season working mostly as a starter with the Texas Rangers.
In my rotation, the 32-year-old would be the Red Sox’ 5th or 6th starter. If the Red Sox starting staff for 2024 was Brandon Woodruff or Corbin Burnes, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Brayan Bello, Chris Sale, Kutter Crawford and Heaney, if healthy, that’s pretty good.
Sign Shohei Ohtani
BOSTON, MA – MAY 5: Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels pitches against the Boston Red Sox during the first inning at Fenway Park on May 5, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images)
I’m in the dream phase of my wants for this Red Sox off season so who wouldn’t want to add Shohei Ohtani to their line up next year and their pitching staff in two years. Red Sox broadcasters seemingly want nothing to do with Ohtani, “where would you play him?”. DH. Feels pretty simple to me. I do look forward to broadcasters and writers being critical of the Red Sox should they sign Ohtani this offseason.
Ohtani made his debut in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league in Japan in 2013, where he quickly gained attention for his powerful pitching arm and impressive batting abilities. In 2017, he made the decision to join MLB and signed with the Los Angeles Angels.
As a pitcher, Ohtani possesses a blazing fastball and a wide array of off-speed pitches, making him a formidable force on the mound. He has the ability to reach triple-digit speeds with his fastball and has recorded numerous strikeouts throughout his career.
In addition to his pitching prowess, Ohtani is also an exceptional hitter. He possesses incredible power and has the ability to hit for both average and distance. Ohtani’s unique two-way skills have earned him the nickname “The Japanese Babe Ruth,” drawing comparisons to the legendary baseball player.
Despite facing some injury setbacks in his MLB career, Ohtani has continued to impress with his performances on both sides of the game. His versatility and talent have made him a fan favorite and a highly sought-after player in the league. Ohtani’s impact on the game of baseball has been significant, and he continues to captivate audiences with his extraordinary abilities.
Trade for SS Bobby Witt Jr.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – AUGUST 04: Bobby Witt Jr. #7 of the Kansas City Royals reaches first base for a single as Eric Hosmer #35 of the Boston Red Sox tries to field the ball in the first inning at Kauffman Stadium on August 04, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images)
Yeah, I know, it won’t happen but let me dream for a few minutes of turning Marcelo Mayer and prospects into an MVP candidate and someone who could be the Red Sox shortstop for the next 10 seasons.
For those who don’t know, Bobby Witt Jr. was selected as the second overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft. Witt Jr. is primarily a shortstop but has also showcased his versatility by playing other positions in the infield. He possesses exceptional athleticism, a strong arm, and excellent defensive skills, making him a standout player in the field. Offensively, Witt Jr. is known for his power-hitting ability, impressive bat speed, and overall offensive prowess.
Before joining the Royals organization, Witt Jr. gained recognition for his outstanding performance in high school. He was named the Gatorade National Baseball Player of the Year in 2019, solidifying his status as one of the top prospects in the country.
Since joining the Royals, Witt Jr. has continued to impress with his skills and potential. He has showcased his abilities in various minor league levels, displaying a combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess. With his exceptional talent and dedication to the game, Bobby Witt Jr. is a franchise player in Major League Baseball.