The Boston Red Sox are poised to emerge as significant contenders in this offseason’s free agency landscape.
They have already attracted attention from major stars such as Juan Soto, Max Fried, Corbin Burnes, and Blake Snell. Moreover, fresh options for enhancing their roster became accessible on Friday with the passing of the non-tender deadline, further expanding their potential targets.
Here are six non-tendered players that the Red Sox could set their sights on in free agency:
Kyle Finnegan, RP
This veteran reliever could serve as a vital addition to a Red Sox bullpen that faltered notably during the latter part of the previous season. Finnegan, aged 33, earned his first All-Star selection last season, finishing with an impressive 3.68 ERA and 38 saves as a member of the Washington Nationals, slotting him third in the MLB for saves, trailing only Ryan Helsley and Emmanuel Clase. With Kenley Jansen’s return to the team looking increasingly unlikely, Finnegan—who has never posted an ERA above 4.00 throughout his professional career—could seamlessly step into the closer position for Boston.
Jordan Romano, RP
Having faced Romano in numerous matchups in the past, the Red Sox are well-acquainted with his skill set. The right-handed reliever carved out a six-season tenure with the Toronto Blue Jays, solidifying himself as the team’s primary closer. Over the course of his career, he amassed 105 saves, with the majority—95—coming from 2021 to 2023, earning him two All-Star selections. Although elbow problems limited the 31-year-old to just 15 games in the last season, the Red Sox would be banking on his proven track record, particularly his extensive experience within the competitive American League East.
Brendan Rodgers, 2B
Ever since the retirement of fan-favorite Dustin Pedroia, second base has posed a significant issue for the Red Sox. Rodgers could emerge as a strong candidate to fill this pivotal position, especially if the organization decides to allow their promising prospect, Kristian Campbell, more time at Triple-A Worcester. At 28 years old, Rodgers may not dazzle with his offensive production—posting a .267 batting average, along with 13 home runs and 54 RBIs while playing for the Colorado Rockies this past season—but his Gold Glove-winning prowess on defense may be precisely what the Red Sox need, especially after finishing first in the American League with a staggering 115 errors in 2024. Bringing Rodgers into the fold also reunites him with former double-play partner Trevor Story, as the two shared the diamond on the Rockies for three memorable seasons.
Cal Quantrill, SP
After being traded to the Rockies post-2023, Quantrill found his performance hindered in an unfavorable pitching environment. The 29-year-old ended the season with an 8-11 record and a 4.98 ERA, a stark contrast to his prior success. Just two seasons earlier, Quantrill delivered an impressive performance as a starting pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians, where he recorded a 15-5 record alongside a solid 3.38 ERA. He also showcased versatility during the 2021 season when he proved effective both as a starter and out of the bullpen. Should he recapture that form, Quantrill could serve as an invaluable depth asset for the Red Sox.
Brent Honeywell, RP
After numerous challenges early in his career, Honeywell has finally discovered his footing in Major League Baseball while playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he now boasts a World Series championship ring. In the most recent regular season, the 29-year-old right-hander compiled a record of 1-1, accompanied by a respectable 2.62 ERA over 18 appearances. While he isn’t known for overpowering hitters—exemplified by a modest 4.3 strikeouts per nine innings in 2024—his experience in pitching for a championship-caliber team represents a highly desirable trait as the Red Sox seek to build a competitive squad.
What free agents should the Red Sox prioritize to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season?
**Interview with Baseball Analyst Jamie Andrews on the Red Sox’s Free Agency Prospects**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Jamie. The Boston Red Sox are making headlines this offseason. With major names like Juan Soto and Max Fried attracting attention, how do you see their strategy unfolding?
**Jamie Andrews:** It’s a thrilling time for Red Sox fans. They’ve positioned themselves as serious contenders in the free agency market. The team seems focused not only on well-known stars but also on adding depth through shrewd signings—especially following the non-tender deadline, which has opened new opportunities.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of new opportunities, there are several non-tendered players on the market. Which of these players could have the most impact if signed by the Red Sox?
**Jamie Andrews:** I think Kyle Finnegan could be a game-changer for the bullpen. After a standout season with the Nationals, earning his first All-Star selection, he has proven to be reliable, with a 3.68 ERA and 38 saves. Given the uncertainty surrounding Kenley Jansen’s return, Finnegan might step in as the new closer, which would add stability to a bullpen that struggled last season [[1](https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-red-sox/2024/11/02/red-sox-offseason-free-agency-luxury-cap-space-trade-rumors/)].
**Interviewer:** What about Jordan Romano? He seems like he could also be a significant addition.
**Jamie Andrews:** Absolutely! Romano is a seasoned reliever and has a strong track record as the primary closer for the Blue Jays. Despite his injury struggles last season, his career includes 105 saves, mostly in recent years, and he’s been an All-Star twice. If he can return to form, he would bring both experience and talent, crucial for competing in the tough AL East [[1](https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-red-sox/2024/11/02/red-sox-offseason-free-agency-luxury-cap-space-trade-rumors/)].
**Interviewer:** The infield has been a point of concern, particularly after Dustin Pedroia’s retirement. How might Brendan Rodgers fit into this picture?
**Jamie Andrews:** Brendan Rodgers offers a potential solution at second base. While he may not be a standout offensively, his presence could stabilize the position while allowing younger prospects like Kristian Campbell to develop further in the minors. The Red Sox need a consistent presence there, and Rodgers could very well provide that [[1](https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-red-sox/2024/11/02/red-sox-offseason-free-agency-luxury-cap-space-trade-rumors/)].
**Interviewer:** With all these factors in play, what’s your overall outlook for the Red Sox this offseason?
**Jamie Andrews:** It’s an exciting time! If they can secure a couple of these key players, they could significantly enhance their competitiveness. Their strategy seems to be blending established talent with promising young players, which might position them well for not just the upcoming season, but for future success too [[1](https://www.boston.com/sports/boston-red-sox/2024/11/02/red-sox-offseason-free-agency-luxury-cap-space-trade-rumors/)].
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Jamie, for your insights! The Red Sox offseason looks promising indeed.
**Jamie Andrews:** My pleasure! Looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds.
