The Boston Red Sox will need to reassess their starting rotation strategy during the upcoming offseason.One of these spots is likely to be occupied by Lucas Giolito once he’s back from his injury.
McNair noted, “This season has been challenging for the 24-year-old Casas due to a rib cartilage injury, but the Red Sox’s offense has continued to perform well in his absence. He is a patient hitter with a walk rate significantly higher than the league average.
“Defensively, Casas is generally reliable—though not exceptional—comparable to a solid first baseman rather than an elite one. Reflecting on past Red Sox players, Casas could follow a development path similar to Mo Vaughn. The team has managed without Casas, and some positional adjustments, such as moving Rafael Devers, could help stabilize the infield. With Casas under team control through 2028, the team has flexibility, but trading him seems unlikely as he appears set to be the starting first baseman for the foreseeable future.”
The Red Sox will probably look to bolster their starting rotation, possibly through a trade.
Boston also faces a challenge with their wealth of outfield talent. With players like All-Star Jarren Duran, promising rookies Ceddanne Rafaela and Wilyer Abreu, top prospect Roman Anthony, and potentially first-round pick Braden Montgomery, they have more outfielders than positions available. This surplus is both a luxury and a problem for Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow.
FanSided’s Rick McNair suggested that the Red Sox might trade one of their outfielders to address a significant roster need this winter. McNair specifically proposed that Duran, who is nearing arbitration, could be traded for a top starting pitcher.
“Duran has been exceptional as a leadoff hitter this season, putting immense pressure on defenses with his combination of power and speed,” McNair said. “However, with Ceddanne Rafaela and other promising prospects in the pipeline, the Red Sox could consider trading Duran to acquire a high-caliber pitcher like Seattle’s George Kirby.”
