Enhancing pitching emerged as a primary focus for Boston during the offseason, extending beyond the Major League field to all aspects in 2024.
In the previous season, the Red Sox concluded with the 22nd ranking in starting pitching ERA (4.68) and the 20th ranking in relief pitching ERA (4.32). The team faced challenges with injuries as only one pitcher, Brayan Bello, made more than 25 starts. Additionally, the Minor Leagues lacked substantial high-caliber reinforcements, with Boston’s top eight prospects by the conclusion of the last season predominantly being position players.
During the offseason, the Red Sox made a notable addition to their roster by acquiring right-hander Lucas Giolito. However, they also made the decision to trade away their long-time ace, Chris Sale. While the team continues discussions regarding potential free-agent signings and trade opportunities, President of Baseball Operations Craig Breslow recognizes that for Boston to thrive in 2024 and beyond, improvements need to extend beyond just on-field performance.
Expressing his candid evaluation, Breslow mentioned during an interview on the Fenway Rundown Podcast that, in his view, the development of pitching within the organization is deficient compared to the progress seen in position-player development.
The hiring of new pitching coach Andrew Bailey and director of pitching Justin Willard was aimed at addressing this deficiency, and Breslow is confident that the team is moving in the right direction based on their early contributions.
“We’ve invested a significant amount of time together. They have communicated with both coaches and players, and we are genuinely aligned in our approach to developing pitchers,” Breslow explained.
Ensuring accountability in fostering optimal development environments for players is a top priority. Breslow highlighted Andrew’s efforts in tailoring and expanding individual player plans, dedicating time to conduct one-on-one discussions with each pitcher through Zoom. These conversations involve delving into development prospects, identifying strengths, and strategizing ways to enhance their performance, serving as substantial evidence of the commitment to player development.
While internal enhancements are ongoing, the Red Sox remain actively engaged in bolstering their pitching from external sources. Upon Breslow’s hiring, team chairman Tom Werner expressed the organization’s commitment to going “full throttle” in fortifying the roster during the offseason. Breslow acknowledged that, as of now, the team has not fully met that ambitious standard.
“We need to align with the right player at the right time,” Breslow remarked. “Truthfully, we haven’t done that so far, but it doesn’t mean we won’t. I am optimistic that we will assemble an exciting, dynamic, and successful team on the field shortly. However, I also recognize that making such statements in January might seem somewhat hollow.”
Breslow expressed confidence in the competitive depth for rotation spots, particularly among the team’s younger pitchers, following Giolito. Notably, Tanner Houck, Garrett Whitlock, and Josh Winckowski are expected to receive ample opportunities to secure starting positions.
Rumors have circulated regarding the Red Sox’s potential interest in acquiring a top-tier starter from the free-agent market, like Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery. While Breslow didn’t dismiss the possibility of a fit with one of these pitchers, he emphasized the importance of not compromising future success solely for immediate gains in the 2024 season.
“We’re seeking the chance to enhance our immediate prospects while also constructing a team around our core position players. The goal is not just to pursue a World Series championship for a single year but to establish a competitive window where we contend for division titles and World Series championships consistently year after year,” explained Breslow.
This response may not satisfy Boston fans who may be urging the club to implement significant changes following its third last-place finish in four seasons in the AL East. Breslow acknowledged his understanding of their sentiments, stating, “Fans are frustrated, disappointed, and rightfully angry because they care. It’s one of the appealing aspects of being associated with Boston or working for the Red Sox. I want to emphasize that we share in that frustration and care deeply alongside our fans. These last-place finishes are equally unacceptable for us as they are for the fans.”
