The Boston Red Sox, fresh off acquiring ace Garrett Crochet, have set their sights on further roster upgrades, including a right-handed bat.
Teoscar Hernandez, a longtime candidate for Boston, remains on their radar. However, his contract demands—such as refusing deferred payments and differing views on bonuses and annual value—have stalled negotiations with both the Red Sox and his current team, the Dodgers.
Rather than overpaying for Hernandez, the Red Sox have a compelling alternative: Seiya Suzuki of the Chicago Cubs. Reports suggest the Cubs are open to trading Suzuki to reduce payroll. Statistically, Suzuki matches Hernandez’s offensive profile, offering fewer strikeouts and potentially fewer issues. His current contract, with two years left at an average annual value of $19 million, presents a more affordable and flexible option.
With a strong farm system and Chicago’s need for financial relief, Boston could secure Suzuki without a significant trade package. This pivot might not just be a fallback plan—it could prove the more strategic choice for bolstering their roster and addressing a key need this offseason.