The Boston Red Sox have been active this offseason, so fans cannot be too disgruntled towards the front office. They have brought in some big names so far, and Boston does not appear to be finished with filling out their 2025 roster.
Although the Red Sox's bullpen has already improved from last year's staff, left-handed reliever Tanner Scott has been connected with Boston since becoming a free agent. The flame-throwing closer is coming off of his greatest season to date. He was named to the All-Star Game for the first time behind a 1.75 ERA and 22 saves between the Marlins and the Padres. Scott would certainly make a splash with any team he signs with, including the Red Sox, but is he worth the money he seeks?
Scott will be 31 years old in July, and that does not bode well with his asking price for Boston, which is four years, $80 million. It is a lot of money for a reliever, especially one who is on the wrong side of 30. Historically, the Red Sox do not go after an aging pitcher, especially one who wants a bigger contract.
Tanner Scott's $80 million asking price may be too much for the Red Sox
The latest on LHP Tanner Scott's free agency according to @jonmorosi ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/H70KaaQYHo
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 2, 2025
Scott might just be worth the risk, however. He's gotten better with age and has combined for a 7.6 bWAR over the last two seasons. In his six prior years, Scott combined for a 1.1 bWAR, so clearly he has figured out how to be a dominant bullpen arm.
Boston, just like any contending club, is also looking for guys who can perform in the postseason. In five appearances this past year in the playoffs, Scott did not allow a run across 4 1/3 frames alongside seven strikeouts and just two hits.
Scott is the best reliever remaining on the market and, arguably, one of the best in baseball. If the Red Sox do not sign him, then another World Series contender will be more than happy to do so. Scott does not get hit hard, but he throws as fast as any other reliever. It's a rare combo, regardless of age, so maybe Boston should reconsider their philosophy of staying away from an older pitcher. Scott is only reaching his peak now.