New Red Sox trade rumor emerges after missing Blake Snell

The Boston Red Sox began the MLB offseason with a long “to-do” list that included adding a credible left-handed starting pitcher.

A portion of the fan base wanted the Red Sox to target two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell. However, those dreams were dashed when the veteran southpaw signed a five-year, $182 million contract with the LA Dodgers last week.

With Snell no longer an option, the Red Sox could consider targeting another proven left-handed hitter as a free agent.

If the Red Sox are desperate to add a top-tier LHP to their rotation, former NL Cy Young finalist Max Fried could be at the top of their list.

“Boston is believed to be in the market for a left-handed starter, so they could turn their focus to Max Fried after Snell is taken off the market,” MLB insider Mark Feinsand reported Tuesday. In November, it was reported that the 30-year-old left-hander could earn between $25 million and $28 million per year on his next deal.

After missing out on Snell, it makes a lot of sense for the Red Sox to look at Fried as their next best option. After all, the 3.4 WAR the former 2012 first-rounder posted last season is the highest among currently available starting players.

However, the 2024 campaign was also a mixed experience for Fried. His ERA (3.25) rose above 3.00 for the first time since 2020, as he also posted his most losses (10) and worst WHIP (1.164) of the past four seasons. Although he ended up earning an MLB All-Star award, it was still far from his best performance on the mound.

The Red Sox’ rotation is already decent, but it’s clear how a dominant left-hander like Fried could help push the group to the top. His presence could be the difference between him qualifying for the 2025 postseason and missing the playoffs for the fourth straight year.

With the MLB Winter Meetings beginning Monday in Dallas, TX, it may not be long before Red Sox fans know whether they should start pre-ordering Fried jerseys.