Red Sox: Three players whose futures are doomed in Boston

Red Sox Catcher: Christian Vázquez

This is the selection that I believe will get the most heat from Red Sox Nation. Christian Vázquez has become a fan favorite to some while 2021 has also seen him earn the ire of another section of the fanbase.

I’ve been on both sides of the argument as deep down I think the Moon Man is fantastic and is still one of the best catchers in the game today, but it’s hard to ignore his massive regressions in almost every category imaginable.

He’s a free agent after this season but carries a $7M team option with a $250K buyout. Just like the previous fellas I mentioned on my list here, I think the Red Sox will be taking the buyout over the team option. I’m sure some of you are sitting there saying, “Brendan, why would they pass on one of their key guys?” I’ll tell ya why, my friends. It all boils down to three things: money, playing quality, control.

Again, Vazqy is a free agent with that option but a new deal will surely command much more than the $7M he’d be due in 2022. I keep harping on his salary because Boston has two very good catchers right behind Christian on the depth chart that earn far less per year. Kevin Plawecki is in arbitration will earn just $1.6M in 2021, so even if he gets a raise, it won’t come near what Vazqy will command.

Big Kev has been great in the batter’s box and has called some great games behind the plate, I don’t really think Boston will be missing much if he takes over full-time. Next comes control. The third man on the totem pole is Connor Wong and the youngster has plenty of time left with the organization ahead of him. Sadly, Vázquez has more working against him than for him and it could lead to his exit from the team.