When it comes to the sweepstakes to land a star-level player, teams must take any advantage they can get.
Amidst the MLB offseason, the Boston Red Sox and other high-paying clubs have been linked to an endless stream of free agents or players on the trade lock. Seemingly, every All-Star on the trade market is connected to an organization that spends top dollar.
The Red Sox are looking for a starting pitcher to add to their rotation, whether it is a flame-throwing youngster in Garret Crochet, or one of a few overlooked arms who haven't garnered as much attention. The Red Sox might have an advantage over other contending clubs for one of the bigger names remaining on the market.
Walker Buehler remains among the available free agent pitchers. The righty has spent his entire career with the Dodgers, winning two World Series. The 30-year-old is moving to another team but is not interested in inking a deal with anyone. Buehler provided one wrinkle to his free agency: he wants to be the ace of the staff.
Red Sox have unexpected advantage over Yankees in Walker Buehler chase
The Red Sox are among the many teams who have shown interest in Walker Buehler, according to @THEREAL_DV.
— Boston Sports Gordo (@BOSSportsGordo) December 9, 2024
Buehler reportedly wants to be the alpha of a rotation, and all of the big spending AL East teams are in on him.
(via @MLBNetwork) pic.twitter.com/w8WvlXIe3o
Well, Red Sox fans, you are in luck. If this is a top priority for Buehler, then you can cross the Yankees right off the list. Gerrit Cole has his job as the No. 1 guy in the Pinstripes' rotation, which opposes Buehler's desires. Score one for Boston.
If the Red Sox do sign him, however, will fans be excited? Buehler posted a 5.38 ERA in 16 starts this past season, with a career-worst 7.6 strikeouts per nine innings. Returning from his second career Tommy John surgery, Buehler did not offer much in the regular season for the eventual champions.
While his regular season was forgettable, Buehler seemed to find his vintage self in the NLCS and in the World Series. Buehler did not allow a run and struck out 13 batters across 10 innings in three outings between the two series. He was undeniable when it mattered most, and even recorded the final out to clinch the World Series.
It seems like the Red Sox would be dipping into a bit of a risk if they went after Buehler, but looking at the rest of their starting rotation, he would unquestionably become the top dog. Even if he can't get the job done in the regular season, his 3.04 career ERA in 94 2/3 playoff innings speaks for itself. The Red Sox want to contend in the postseason, and Buehler would be a major help if they can get to that point again.