Boston Red Sox: Intriguing Non-Tender Targets

May 17, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Henderson Alvarez (37) looks over towards first base during the second inning against the Atlanta Braves at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Henderson Alvarez, SP

The most surprising non-tender decision from the deadline, was the Miami Marlins and their decision to move on from Henderson Alvarez. The 25-year-old Alvarez was great for the Marlins in 2013, before putting up an impressive 2014 All-Star campaign. Alvarez posted a 2.65 ERA in 30 starts with the Marlins in 2014, and appeared to be a rock solid part of their rotation going forward.

Alvarez struggled early last season, and the Marlins shut him down after only four starts with a shoulder injury. His injured right shoulder required surgery which held him out of the rest of the season, and could easily force him to miss a portion of 2016. Obviously, this is why the Marlins non-tendered Alvarez.

Shoulder injuries can be tricky, and make no mistake, he could easily never be the same pitcher again. That being said, if he recovers well from the shoulder injury, whoever signs him will get a solid 25-year-old middle of the rotation pitcher. While it was only one season, Alvarez has an All-Star pedigree, so we know that upside is there.

Alvarez will likely command the most attention of all of the non-tendered players, so it is not like you are going to be able to sign him to an irrelevant minor league deal. The Red Sox have a lot of mid-rotation type starters, but if he recovers well from surgery, Alvarez would undoubtedly be among the best options. He could step in and be an excellent number three in the Red Sox rotation.

It would come with some risk, but the payoff could also be beneficial in the end. There will be a lot of competition, but the Red Sox need to be looking at Henderson Alvarez.

Next: Potentially Elite Relief Pitcher