While Martinez is the best bat on the market, he’s hardly the only appealing option. Bruce, Eric Hosmer, and Mike Moustakas are among the other top options. Carlos Gonzalez, Carlos Gomez, and Jose Bautista are cheaper options who can be found on the market. That’s without even considering the potential trade targets out there.
If the supply outweighs the demand then the market could cool on Martinez, lowering the price well below his lofty expectations. If that happens, he becomes much more appealing to the Red Sox.
Boston has a long history with Boras, who currently represents Bradley and Xander Bogaerts, as well as several former Red Sox players. They should be familiar enough with his tactics to know when he’s bluffing to drive up the price and when he’s truly digging into his demands.
Next: Sale among Cy Young finalists
The Red Sox will certainly have their eye on Martinez this winter, so long as the price remains somewhat reasonable. They may be willing to exceed the luxury tax this year but they still have their limits. It’s hard to see them ponying up $200 million but if Boras backs off those rumored demands then we could be seeing Martinez swatting home runs over the Green Monster next spring.