The Boston Red Sox fanbase was shaken to its very core on Sunday evening with the announcement that Rafael Devers was traded to the San Francisco Giants. The circumstances surrounding the trade are numerous, but one thing's for sure — money had a lot to do with the decision.
Devers was owed approximately $235 million over the next 8.5 years years. Though some Red Sox fans undoubtedly believe Boston's ownership group will just pocket the savings, it's highly likely that the money will be reinvested back in the team. The total comes out to about $27 million per season. Considering that Boston can also shed additional salary this winter once Lucas Giolito, Walker Buehler, Aroldis Chapman, and Liam Hendriks are off the books, the Red Sox will have money to spend.
The Red Sox will need to show their fans that moving on from Devers doesn't mean lowering payroll. As such, Boston should direct their attention to next year's free agent class. Which top-tier free agents should be on the Red Sox's shortlist when free agency opens this offseason?
12 free agents the Red Sox should sign with Rafael Devers’ money this offseason
Pete Alonso, New York Mets first baseman
Pete Alonso's two-year, $54 million deal with the New York Mets contains a player option for next season. Seeing as how Alonso is hitting .293/.390/.570 with a 174 OPS+ this season, he's bound to opt out of his current deal. Alonso bet on himself after receiving little interest on the open market this past winter and should be on the Red Sox's radar.
Michael King, San Diego Padres pitcher
There will be some talented pitchers hitting free agency this coming winter, and Boston should keep an eye on Michael King. The former New York Yankees reliever has turned himself into a quality starter for the San Diego Padres, and with the Friars' excessive payroll, they're unlikely to retain his services.
Gleyber Torres, Detroit Tigers infielder
If Red Sox fans want to stick it to the Yankees, there might not be a better way than to swoop in and grab Gleyber Torres in free agency next offseason. Now with the Detroit Tigers, Torres is proving that he can find success away from the Big Apple. Though Boston seems to have enough help up the middle, Torres' bat has been leading the charge for the Tigers this season.
Kyle Schwarber, Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter
Bring Schwar-bombs back to Boston! Kyle Schwarber, who was a trade deadline acquisition for the Red Sox in 2021, has done nothing but rake since arriving in Philadelphia. The veteran slugger is defensively limited, but his power is undeniable. After trading their DH to San Fran, perhaps Boston could reestablish some goodwill by bringing another one back to Beantown.
Framber Valdez, Houston Astros pitcher
If Boston is looking for a fellow ace to pair alongside Garrett Crochet, they're not going to find one much better than Framber Valdez. All of the Houston Astros' attempts to re-sign the southpaw have failed, and he'll be looking to cash in this offseason. The price tag might be a bit high, but Valdez is one of the most consistent starters slated to hit free agency this winter.
Cody Bellinger, New York Yankees outfielder/ first baseman
Another thievery from the Yankees could feature Cody Bellinger. While the Boston outfield would seem to be under lock and key for the foreseeable future, Bellinger has plenty of experience at first base. He's got one of the sweetest left-handed swings in the game and could opt out of his contract with New York this offseason. Many baseball fans forget that Bellinger is still just 29 years old.
Nick Martinez, Cincinnati Reds pitcher
If Boston is in the market for a starter who won't break the bank and will allow them to invest in multiple high-impact free agents this offseason, zeroing in on Nick Martinez could be a smart move. The Cincinnati Reds' hybrid starter could give Boston a lift in the rotation or out of the bullpen and relies on soft contact rather than high velocity.
Dylan Cease, San Diego Padres pitcher
The biggest pitching prize during the upcoming offseason will be Dylan Cease. One of the best strikeout artists in the game today, Cease will command top-dollar on the open market. However, Boston could pair Cease with his former Chicago White Sox's teammate (Crochet) and have one of the top 1-2 punches in the American League.
Bo Bichette, Toronto Blue Jays shortstop
All signs point to Trevor Story exercising his option, but that doesn't mean Boston can just ignore the middle infield. Bo Bichette is bouncing back following a down year in 2024 and will likely hit the free agent market this offseason. Depending on his 2025 campaign ends, Bichette may be looking for a pillow contract to reestablish his value and could be a buy-low candidate for Boston this winter.
Kyle Tucker, Chicago Cubs outfielder
The Chicago Cubs will do everything in their power to keep Kyle Tucker on the North Side of the Windy City, but if he hits the open market Boston should be in the discussion. Yes, the Red Sox have an abundance of outfielders on the roster, but as fans have seen, they've got no problem making trades.
Ryan Helsley, St. Louis Cardinals pitcher
Ryan Helsley's time on the St. Louis Cardinals could be over before the July 31deadline, but the closer will be a free agent this coming winter. Helsey is one of the hardest throwers in the game, and while his walk rate is a touch higher than most fans would like, he can be a weapon at the back end of the bullpen.
Tyler Mahle, Texas Rangers pitcher
If you're looking for a surprise arm that Boston could (and should) pursue this winter, it's Tyler Mahle. After fully recovering from Tommy John surgery, the Texas Rangers' hurler is putting up All-Star numbers in 2025. Much like the aforementioned Martinez, Mahle relies on weak contact and an ability to mix and match his pitches.