4 best last resorts still available for Red Sox in free agency

If the Sox don't land any major free-agent candidates, these are the best of the rest.

Sep 5, 2023; San Diego, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen
Sep 5, 2023; San Diego, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen | Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
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Aaron Hicks - OF

Hicks is a better player than his tenure with the rival New York Yankees showed. The Yanks released Hicks shortly before the trade deadline and the Orioles picked him up. He played 28 games in New York and 65 in Baltimore in 2023.

Hicks is not an exceptional fielder or hitter, but he a versatile veteran presence. He would serve as a placeholder until the trade deadline or until next season when the Sox could hunt for a better option.

Hicks is a switch-hitter who could cycle into the batting order anywhere Cora needed him to. He walks a ton and offers power from both sides of the plate, in addition to being able to play all three outfield positions.

Hicks' best quality is his strong arm. He ranks in the 95th percentile for arm strength in the league, meaning he could save a few runs in the outfield. Again, Hicks isn't the best choice for Boston this season, but if it's between Hicks and an empty spot in the outfield, Sox fans should take Hicks any day ... especially if he can burn the Yankees a few times in 2024.

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