While the Red Sox aren’t quite ready to be contenders yet, if they can maintain their offensive performance from this season and add one or two quality starting pitchers for 2025, they could be on the verge of breaking through.
Boston’s chief baseball officer, Craig Breslow, is expected to explore nearly every available free-agent starter on the market, as well as those available through trades.
One name that hasn’t been mentioned enough in connection with the Red Sox is Sean Manaea, who is currently performing exceptionally well for the New York Mets. This season, Manaea has a 10-5 record with a 3.51 ERA and 149 strikeouts over 143 2/3 innings.
Manaea’s success this year is largely due to his adjustment in lowering his release point on the mound, a technique he adapted after observing Chris Sale’s delivery for the Atlanta Braves.
Although Manaea hasn’t been widely discussed as a potential free agent, that might change soon. If the Mets reach the playoffs, Manaea will have the chance to prove himself on the big stage.
He has the option to opt out of his contract with New York after this season, just as he did previously with the San Francisco Giants.
Breslow should be prepared with an offer when the time comes.
