Boston Red Sox Rumors: 3 outfield free agent targets this offseason
Boston Red Sox free agent target No. 1: Starling Marte
Back at the Trade Deadline, I highlighted Starling Marte as one of the players the Sox should have looked to pickup at the deadline. Unfortunately for the Sox, Marte was dealt by the Miami Marlins to the Oakland Athletics, quickly dashing any hope Marte could be added for Boston’s postseason run. But now that Marte is a free agent, the Red Sox should look to bring in the speedy outfielder while they can.
Marte is basically an old school leadoff hitter. He doesn’t hit for a ton of power (just 12 home runs last season), but he does hit for a high average, and when he gets on base, he’s always looking to run. Marte tied his career high with 47 stolen bases last season, and did it during his age 32 season. Despite his age climbing, Marte has remained as productive as ever.
Not only would he fill the leadoff role the Sox struggled with for most of the season, but Marte would easily slide into center field and allow Hernandez to move back to second base. Hernandez did a great job patrolling center last season, but Marte is a cut above in the outfield compared to Hernandez.
Marte benefits from being one of the only true center fielders available on the free agent market, and that may cause his price to increase. He will be entering his age 33 season in 2022, but he hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. He will probably be able to fetch a multi year deal in the $15-20 million range, which is a price the Red Sox could certainly afford.
Next. 10 best Red Sox postseason performances of the century. dark
Of all the outfielders available, Marte is easily the best fit for Boston. He is a true leadoff hitter, and can help fill a hole that the Sox never really addressed last season, and he can inadvertently help fill one of Boston’s biggest holes at second base. With Marte setting the table, the Red Sox lineup may become unstoppable next season.