The Boston Red Sox returned to the postseason in 2025 for the first time since 2021 but were eliminated by the New York Yankees in the American League Wild Card Game. With a strong young core, the team now faces several clear objectives to strengthen its roster before spring training.
Boston’s rotation showed flashes of promise but lacked depth and durability late in the season. Improving the rotation with a seasoned pitcher who can mentor younger arms remains a high priority. Several mid-to-top-tier free agents could fill this role, offering consistency and innings stability that the team lacked.
The bullpen was inconsistent, forcing the starters to carry too heavy a load. Acquiring reliable late-inning arms should be essential. A closer or high-leverage reliever with postseason experience would add valuable depth and structure to the pitching staff.
Despite progress from younger players, Boston needs defensive consistency in the middle infield. Adding a veteran shortstop or second baseman would help balance the lineup and secure the infield defense. The club may also consider promoting a top prospect if development continues at pace.
The Red Sox front office approaches this winter with renewed optimism. Their postseason return proved that the rebuild is yielding results, but further upgrades are crucial for sustained success in 2026 and beyond.
"We’ve taken a big step forward," said a team executive. "Now the goal is to make sure we don’t take any steps back."
Author’s Summary: The Red Sox aim to deepen their rotation, solidify the bullpen, and strengthen the middle infield to transform last season’s progress into lasting playoff success.