Top ten free agents the Red Sox could pursue this offseason

Aug 8, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher

(30) throws a pitch against the Washington Nationals in the second inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

Ervin Santana, SP

If the Red Sox miss out on some of the big pitchers on the market like Lester or Shields, or if they’re simply trying to add depth to their starting five, then Santana could be an interesting addition. Santana is having a great year in his first season in Atlanta, posting a 3.66 ERA which is backed by an even-better 3.13 FIP and a 3.04 K/BB.

There are concerns with bringing Santana to Boston; first and foremost, he has been a fly ball pitcher throughout his career. However, with Santana’s good command and solid strikeout numbers, the occasional home run is not quite as devastating. Still, that issue could prevent the Red Sox from paying top dollar for Santana. He will be 32 years old to start next season and could be in the market for a four-year contract, which may be a bit of an overpay. However, if the Red Sox could shorten it to a three-year deal worth something in the range of $55M, then Santana could be on the Red Sox next season.

While Santana is an interesting name, though, don’t expect the Red Sox to seriously pursue him unless they miss on both Lester and Shields.