Boston Red Sox: 3 surprise breakout candidates in 2021 MLB season

Matt Andriese can be a valuable pivot man for the Boston Red Sox

One of the under-the-radar signings this offseason could be the one that pays off the most for the Boston Red Sox in 2021.

Signed to a one-year, $2.1 million deal, right-handed pitcher Matt Andriese could be a pivotal swing man between the starting rotation and a long reliever for the Red Sox in 2021.

Providing both bullpen strength and starting rotation depth, Andriese is poised to be one of those signings that become the difference between the team contending and just being mediocre.

With Eduardo Rodriguez, Nathan Eovaldi, Garrett Richards and eventually Chris Sale locking in the front end of the rotation, Andriese is looking to compete with Martin Perez, Nick Pivetta and Tanner Houck for the back end of that rotation.

As the odd man looking in, don’t be surprised if Matt Andriese proves he is the man for one of the final spots due to both his attitude and his versatility of pitches.

Here is what the veteran right-hander said after signing with the team back in late December.

"“I signed here with the Red Sox for the opportunity to do both (starter and reliever), so I have a lot of flexibility in my career,” Andriese told reporters via Zoom as translated by NBC Sports Boston.  “I’ve started lots of games, I’ve come in the bullpen more recently, but the Red Sox are obviously trying to get more starters, too.  I think my flexibility and my role, I’m going to compete for a starting spot, but I know that being in the bullpen is an option to help the team as well.”"

Now, I’m not saying Matt Andriese is going to be a 15-game winner, but he will be a solid, dependable pitcher for Alex Cora to use as both a starter and reliever.

With a career 26-34 record and a 4.57 ERA, the new Red Sox pitcher isn’t exactly exciting anyone, but he is due for a season where he puts it all together.  Why not this season?