The Boston Red Sox have shown optimistic signs during their spring training in Fort Myers, Florida. They stand third in the Grapefruit League, with a record of 19 wins and 12 losses. Not only have the Red Sox starters become accustomed to MLB play but many of the organization’s most promising prospects have been given chances to showcase their potential while playing alongside the major leaguers. Despite a relatively quiet offseason, the team is hoping to rebound from a disappointing finish to their 2023 season and possibly contend for the postseason in the fall.
A lack of proper starting pitching plagued the team last season, and the trade that sent Chris Sale, the ace pitcher, to the Atlanta Braves exacerbated this problem. The Red Sox front office addressed this issue by signing Lucas Giolito, a veteran pitcher known for throwing a no-hitter during his time with the Chicago White Sox. Unfortunately, during his start on March 1st against the Twins, he suffered a partially torn UCL, a devastating elbow injury that rendered him out for the rest of the season.
Despite the setback, younger players on the team are ready to step up and start games in 2024. Manager Alex Cora has officially announced the 2024 starting rotation, with Bello, Pivetta, Crawford, Whitlock, and Houck taking the mound for the Red Sox. Whitlock, who spent the majority of last season battling a hip injury, has had a normal offseason without any discomfort and is ready to pitch at a high level, capping off his Spring Training with a dominant performance over the strong Texas Rangers lineup. Houck had his 2023 season cut short after being struck in the face by a line drive, and following surgery, is also likely to start. The team still has the opportunity to sign star free-agent pitcher Jordan Montgomery, although such a signing is unlikely. The bullpen, including Jansen, Martin, Campbell, Slaten, and Winckowski, has a high ceiling and much to prove entering the season. The pitchers who were sent down to the team’s Triple-A minor league affiliate additionally could be called up to serve as bullpen depth during the season, with some serious talent in Bernandino, Criswell, and Kelly. Overall, the pitching situation in Boston appears to have improved and has the potential for a great 2024 season.
In terms of position players, the team has addressed most of its offseason questions. In the infield, first baseman Triston Casas and third baseman Rafael Devers are coming off amazing years in the MLB, providing their swinging power to the Red Sox offense. At shortstop, Trevor Story has had an injury-free offseason for the first time in many years and has proven to be a threat at the plate with his excellent hitting so far this spring training. Form IV student Ethan Ho ’26, who traveled to Fort Myers this Spring, was able to watch Story in person at a game: “The team seems to be finding a groove. In particular, Story had a few great hits and I am excited to see him thrive.”
Second base remains a question, after Vaughn Grissom, the team’s new acquisition, injured himself before his first start and is now planning to begin his season in April. In the meantime, either Pablo Reyes or Enmanuel Valdez are likely to fill the gap in the roster.
Tyler O’Neil is another big addition for the Sox. The Red Sox played their first game of the season away in Seattle on March 28th and continued playing two more away series against the Athletics and Angels before finally returning to Fenway Park for their home debut against the Orioles on April 9th.
