Red Sox Option #1: Collin McHugh
Collin McHugh in some ways feels like one of the most frustrating “what could have been” type teases in recent seasons. The Red Sox signed McHugh to an incentive-laden one-year deal in March of 2020, but he ended up opting out in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Then, straight out of the worst-case scenario playbook, he ended up signing with the Tampa Bay Rays for the 2021 season, where he was absolutely electric (6-1, 1.55 ERA, 74 K, 12 BB, ERA+ of 256) in a hybrid role on that pitching staff.
Now, he’s on the market yet again. Maybe, just maybe, this is finally the chance for McHugh to actually don a Red Sox uniform. It would likely cost more than the first time around, particularly coming off the season he has just had.
With his ties to both the Astros and Rays, he may not be the most beloved player at Fenway Park but this bullpen needs all the help it can get. On the other hand, the chance to scoop up a premium relief pitcher from a key divisional rival? May well be worth the cost.