3 Red Sox players that should be re-signed before free agency arrives
By Rick McNair
Red Sox CF: Kiké Hernández
Kiké Hernández will be a free agent, and the Red Sox should be in the hunt for the likable and versatile Hernández. Kiké, in 2021, demonstrated his capabilities in just what outcomes he would have in an entire season. The righty hit .250, produced a 110 wRC+, banged out 20 home runs, and had a 4.1 fWAR.
Hernández was outstanding in the playoffs and his season-long positive defense was either in center field or second base and was solid. This season Hernández may need a jolt to match the figures of 2021, but at $7 MM a season and positive enough defense, he is worth the signing effort. Having a veteran still in the outfield to balance out the younger Alex Verdugo and even younger Jarren Duran will be wise.
Soon to be 31-years-old what you see is what you get. If Hernández would bite for a similar contract (2/14 M), the Red Sox should go all in. Above his on-the-field contributions, he has become one of the sparks in the clubhouse that keeps this team moving each day. Even when they were struggling you could see him at batting practice with a smile on his face trying to keep the energy positive around the ballpark.