Which Red Sox players shouldn’t return in 2023?
If the Boston Red Sox want 2023 to be nothing like 2022, it starts with the roster.
Between the impending free agents, gaping holes in the starting rotation and bullpen, and Xander Bogaerts and Rafael Devers’ murky futures, the roster was always going to look different next year. But if they’re truly feeling the “urgency,” as manager Alex Cora said in the end-of-season press conference on Thursday morning, then the roster makeover won’t end with the changes made in reaction to expiring contracts.
Let’s look at three of the more unexpected options for players who shouldn’t be here in 2023…
Jose Peraza
If you forgot that the Red Sox re-signed José Peraza back in July, you’re not alone. He’s on a minor-league contract and he didn’t play a single game for the big-league club. His last major-league stint was with the New York Mets in 2021, and he appeared in 64 games for the club.
There’s no reason for Peraza to remain with the organization moving forward. While he offers depth in the form of infield and outfield capability, he’s hitting .229/.279/.353 since the start of 2019. Why pay for that?
In terms of infield depth, the Sox have Christian Arroyo and Jeter Downs to supplement Trevor Story and hopefully, Xander Bogaerts.