The Boston Red Sox tried to sign Shohei Ohtani, but they have been out of the race for a few days now as the two-time MVP nears a decision.
They are also pushing for Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Seth Lugo, among other targets.
Evidently, there is a sense of urgency for a team that finished last in the AL East.
The Red Sox fired executive Chaim Bloom and brought in Craig Breslow for the role, a sign that they want to compete as soon as possible and weren’t comfortable with the status quo.
According to a Friday report by multiple sources, the team is also looking for some speed, athleticism, and defensive versatility in the form of former All-Star Whit Merrifield.
“The #RedSox have expressed interest in free-agent Whit Merrifield, per @jcmccaffrey and @chadjennings22,” MLB Deadline News tweeted.
The #RedSox have expressed interest in free-agent Whit Merrifield, per @jcmccaffrey and @chadjennings22 pic.twitter.com/AFRyNb0VqP
— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) December 8, 2023
Merrifield is currently well past his prime.
He was an All-Star in 2019, 2021, and 2023 but he will turn 35 in January.
That doesn’t mean he can’t still contribute for an MLB team like the Red Sox.
In fact, he had an acceptable season in 2023 with the Toronto Blue Jays, slashing .272/.318/.382 with 11 home runs, 26 stolen bases, and a .700 OPS.
He can play second base and some outfield, too, and could be a useful addition for Boston depending on the price and the contract, of course.
It would be in the Red Sox’s best interests not to do a long contract with an aging player whose speed is his main asset.
However, on a one or two-year pact, Merrifield could help a contender and is very versatile.
NEXT:
Insider Reveals Who The Red Sox Are Waiting On In Free Agency
