3 players the Red Sox can extend to build a semblance of a core

Brayan Bello

The Red Sox's pool of pitching prospects is less than impressive. According to research done by Zack Scott, who spent 17 seasons working in Boston's front office, the Red Sox's pitching prospect pool is ranked 29th in the league.

Brayan Bello is the best homegrown pitching talent the Sox have to offer, which is why they should sign him long-term. And while Bello is currently signed through 2026, inking a deal soon would mean Boston secures a bargain for his services in the future.

Bello is coming off a successful first full season of pitching. Across his 157 innings in 2023, Bello logged a 4.24 ERA and 124 strikeouts. He also boasts a quality walk rate, only dishing free passes in 6.7% of plate appearances.

Bello's ground ball rate is exceptional at 56.3%, according to Baseball Savant. For a pitcher who will throw the majority of his games at Fenway Park with a notoriously shallow outfield, it's key that Bello can keep the long balls to a minimum.

The righty has expressed interest in an extension with the Red Sox, and Boston has done the same. Getting Bello's signature long-term could take some pressure off the organization's current situation. Plus, investing in pitching is never a dumb thing.