Red Sox to Announce Roster Changes Post-World Series
The Boston Red Sox are set to announce changes to their roster following the conclusion of the World Series. With postseason play wrapping up, the team must navigate several important decisions in the coming days.
Upcoming Roster Changes for the Red Sox
The first significant deadline is five days after the World Series ends. If the Los Angeles Dodgers secure a victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, roster adjustments could begin by this weekend. If the series extends, decisions will be postponed.
Free Agency Update
Four players will enter free agency immediately following the World Series:
- Steven Matz
- Justin Wilson
- Dustin May
- Rob Refsnyder
These players will be available to sign with any team. While reunions are possible, all four are likely to receive interest from various franchises after solid performances this season.
Opt-Out Decisions
Two key players, Trevor Story and Alex Bregman, hold opt-out clauses in their contracts. Decisions regarding these options are due on the fifth day post-World Series. Bregman is expected to opt out and pursue free agency instead of remaining with a deferred $40 million salary. Conversely, the Red Sox are optimistic Story will choose to remain with the team for the final two years of his contract, worth $55 million.
Contract and Option Negotiations
Several other important decisions are pending for the Red Sox:
- Liam Hendriks will have his mutual option declined, leading to a $2 million buyout.
- Lucas Giolito has a $19 million mutual option, but it is unlikely to be exercised.
- Jarren Duran has a club option for 2026, which the team must decide on soon.
If Duran’s option is not picked up, he will receive a $100,000 buyout and remain under team control.
Qualifying Offers
The Red Sox face a crucial decision regarding Giolito. If his mutual option is declined, the team must consider issuing a qualifying offer. This one-year deal, valued at approximately $22 million, would allow the team to receive draft compensation should Giolito sign elsewhere.
40-Man Roster Considerations
Currently, the Red Sox have 38 players on their 40-man roster. They will need to reinstate several players from the injured list, raising the roster count to 41, thus requiring cuts. Players like Jovani Morán and Josh Winckowski may be at risk of being designated for assignment.
Future Prospects
With the deadline to protect minor leaguers from Rule 5 eligibility approaching on November 18, the Red Sox could add pitching prospect David Sandlin, among others.
The upcoming days will be pivotal for the Red Sox as they make essential roster changes and prepare for the offseason. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these decisions shape the team’s future.
