The Red Sox are reportedly interested in free agent shortstop Troy Tulowitzki. There are many potential suitors in addition to Boston.
With the Boston Red Sox likely to make a couple more signings before the start of the 2019 season, there are plenty of realistic rumors flying around. With most of Boston’s free agency probably dedicated to finding pitching help for the bullpen, there are still needs whilst considering position players.
With a strong lineup, there is still a requirement in terms of depth. This is where free agent shortstop Troy Tulowitzki could fit in. Although the Red Sox aren’t firm favorites to sign the former Blue Jay and Rockie, as of now, it’s still a realistic option that is worth considering.
After being released by Toronto just last week, the five-time All-Star is now available to any club. Even better than this, he would be a low-risk/high-reward investment. With Toronto needing to pay him the $38 million he’s owed over the next two season, Tulowitzki would be able to sign with a new club for the MLB minimum.
Pete Abraham reported on Twitter that the Red Sox were among the teams interested in Tulowitzki:
#RedSox were among the many teams who saw Troy Tulowitzki work out on Tuesday.
— Pete Abraham (@PeteAbe) December 20, 2018
They have what was described to me as "legitimate" interest.
Question is how he could fit. At SS if they trade Bogaerts or insurance at 2B/utility player?
Tulo's next team owes him only MLB minimum.
The only real problem with Tulowitzki is his health. He missed the entirety of the 2018 season after suffering from a bone spur in his right ankle, during spring training. Although Boston has their fair share of injury problems, with Dustin Pedroia on the comeback for 2019, with a minimum deal for a player of Tulowitzki’s caliber, you can’t go wrong.
While there seem to be 11 teams interested in the two-time Silver Slugger and two-time Golden Glover, amid reports from his workout earlier in the week, the Red Sox would have to be considered a realistic destination due to their current situation. If the Red Sox were to go at it and get him in, Tulowitzki would provide an excellent low-cost replacement for Ian Kinsler, who signed with San Diego. Along with the likes of super-utility Brock Holt and Eduardo Nunez, Tulowitzki would potentially round off a very accomplished infield backup group.
The right-handed batter is primarily regarded as a full-time shortstop but he’s expressed his willingness to fill in wherever needed. In Boston, he could provide valuable depth at second and third base, as well as at shortstop. This is a free agent option for the Red Sox that is very well worth keeping an eye out for.