Boston Red Sox Rumors: 2 free agent options that could fill the closer role
Boston Red Sox free agent closer option No. 2: Raisel Iglesias
Raisel Iglesias is probably one of the most underrated closers in the game currently. Aside from a 2019 season in which he struggled mightily, Iglesias has been one of the best at shutting the door on opposing teams in the ninth inning. The problem is he often finds himself on a team that rarely gives him leads to protect.
After spending the first six seasons of his career with the Cincinnati Reds, Iglesias was traded to the Los Angeles Angels last offseason. He rewarded the Angels with one of the best seasons of his career. He finished with a 7-5 record while posting a 2.57 ERA, and he picked up 34 saves along the way, which was tied for the most of his career. With Iglesias set to enter free agency, he set himself up quite nicely for a solid payday.
The main problem with Iglesias has always been his consistency. Most of the time he looks unhittable, but he goes through stretches where he just can’t seem to get guys out. Iglesias’ season long struggles in 2019 will certainly make some teams wary of signing him, and rightfully so.
But aside from 2019 and his rookie season in 2015 when he was used as a starter, Iglesias ERA has always fallen in the two run range, which is right where you want to be as a closer. Iglesias hasn’t always been the most conventional guy to close games, but for the most part, he’s been able to get the job done throughout his career.
Iglesias is coming off a season where he just made $9.125 million, and that’s probably right around where his next deal will stay. He’s already 32 and has shown signs of inconsistency throughout his career. But in a relatively barren reliver market, Iglesias is going to be a hot commodity based off the season he just put together.
The Red Sox probably won’t want to pay a hefty fee for Iglesias, and if the bidding gets too high, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them bow out. But as the roster is currently constructed, there isn’t a clear cut fit for the closer role. Iglesias would come in and fill the role, and while it may come at a cost, it could provide the bullpen the stability it so desperately needs.