Red Sox: Three positions that may need a reset for 2018

BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 09: Rain drops are seen on the Boston Red Sox dugout before game four of the American League Division Series between the Houston Astros and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on October 9, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - OCTOBER 09: Rain drops are seen on the Boston Red Sox dugout before game four of the American League Division Series between the Houston Astros and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on October 9, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images)
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The Boston Red Sox may have some possible changes at three positions.  Brock Holt, Chris Young and Mitch Moreland may soon be former members of the Red Sox. Now for some possible replacements.

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – SEPTEMBER 15: Manager John Farrell (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
ST. PETERSBURG, FL – SEPTEMBER 15: Manager John Farrell (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)

The Boston Red Sox will make changes and that has already started with the firing of manager John Farrell. That, however, is the leadership role and the main ingredient is the on field performers where other changes most certainly will take place.

The Red Sox will make a free agent signing since they usually do, but to what extent? The Red Sox will also see free agents leave and that will impact decisions on player acquisition and development. There are three areas that I have chosen to look at that the Red Sox may be examining internal and external options.

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The first is a reserve or platoon or fourth outfielder – however one wishes to do a baseball linguistics dance. The second is considered a utility role – primarily focused on the infield.  Lastly is free agency and that means first base where the incumbent is now or soon to be on the open market.  Will the Red Sox resign or go elsewhere?

The long season invariably shows the necessity for having talented replacements.  The Pablo Sandoval situation and revolving door at third showed that until the minor league system provided an answer. Dustin Pedroia played far too many games with a balky knee and replacing Pedroia’s number offensively and defensively is not an easy task.

Now a look at the three positions and possible options.

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