Alex Bregman signed with the Chicago Cubs on Saturday, forcing the Red Sox to pivot to other options on the open market.
The Red Sox quickly turned around and reportedly agreed to a five-year, $130 million deal with Ranger Suárez. However, that does not fill their need for an impact bat. They were hoping to fill that need with Bregman.
After spending big on Suárez, the Red Sox could be looking for more budget-friendly options to add to their offense. Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker are available, but Tucker would be an expensive addition to a crowded outfield, and Bichette seems poised to earn more than the Red Sox may be willing to pay after signing Suárez.
Additionally, the Philadelphia Phillies seem to be in the driver’s seat for Bichette now. However, Eugenio Suárez, coming off an All-Star season, is still available. Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly predicted the Red Sox would sign Suárez to fill their need for an impact bat.
Suárez was the most sought-after player at the trade deadline last year. He hit 36 home runs in 106 games for the Arizona Diamondbacks before getting dealt to the Seattle Mariners. He did not hit well with the Mariners, who play at the pitcher-friendly T-Mobile Park. However, he could thrive at Fenway Park.
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Suárez earned his second career All-Star selection last season. He hit 49 home runs and had an .824 OPS. He would be significantly cheaper than Bregman and Bichette, and he plays third base.
He would fit in with the Red Sox’s infield, directly replacing Bregman in the hot corner. Marcelo Mayer would seemingly slot in at second base in that case, with Kristain Campbell behind him, looking to earn a role back in the big leagues.
Suárez is 34 years old, coming off his 12th season in the big leagues. The Red Sox should be able to land him on a short-term deal.
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