3 Red Sox players that should be re-signed before free agency arrives
By Rick McNair
Red Sox C: Christian Vázquez
Christian Vázquez is not the best defensive catcher in baseball nor the best hitter, but his backstop game is solid. The Red Sox were reportedly shopping for a catcher during the offseason, but nothing materialized. Age is becoming a factor since Vaz will be 32-years-old next season, which is ancient for a catcher.
Vázquez will not hit 23 home runs again as he did in 2019, and he will not lead the team in stolen bases as he did last season. As a hitter, Vaz realizes his ability and is quite adept at putting the ball in play in crucial situations, especially into right field. The Red Sox talking head analysis folks have pounded away at that point as if they are collectively the agents for Vázquez.
The Red Sox minor league system is not catcher rich, and Ronaldo Hernandez and Connor Wong may compete for a backup role if Boston lets Kevin Plawecki leave. Neither have scouting reports that make you think of Carlton Fisk. Boston could venture into a trade situation or do some free-agent shopping on a list that appears to be a sideward move.
Vázquez is having a solid season, and if that positive continues, a team will be willing to take a chance, and that is the big question – how much of a chance in years and salary? I would not hesitate to offer Vázquez a three-year extension and put the catching issue to rest for a few seasons.