The Boston Red Sox are in the middle of an incredibly pivotal offseason after the team's surprise 2025 postseason appearance. Despite trading Rafeal Devers early in the season, the franchise still fought its way to 89 wins and became one of the best stories of the season. There is no denying the fun underdog mindset that mirrors teams of years past that had gone on surprise runs. Still, it remained clear that for the momentum to continue this offseason, the Red Sox need to make a handful of blockbuster moves.
Increasingly unlikely moves, with Mass Live's Sean McAdam reporting that Boston will avoid giving out long-term deals this offseason. It is an alarming sentiment for a franchise that is already dealing with the possibility of losing Alex Bregman to free agency, along with Nathaniel Lowe and Lucas Giolito. The franchise is in no position to sit out any long-term deals.
It is an outlook that goes a long way in explaining why the team missed out on sluggers Pete Alonso and Kyle Schwarber. You're going ot have an understandably difficult time landing impact players if you're actively avoiding providing the security they are seeking in free agency.
Red Sox Take Odd Offseason Stance Refusing to Hand Out Long Term Deals
Boston needs an All-Star-level bat or two, and now it has the unenviable task of attempting to sign an impact player while actively shying away from offering a long-term contract. It speaks to an organization that has grown increasingly cheap, a legendary franchise relegated to minor relevance for refusing to have the necessary budget for the 2020s.
There is no reasonable explanation for Boston's stance with a fan base that is finally buying back into a team that is a few pieces away from having a real shot at meaningful contention. There seems to be a level of contentment with mediocrity, wanting to be just good enough to keep fans engaged without being willing to spend what it takes to give the franchise a World Series aspiration.
This frustrating update not only explains why the Red Sox have missed out on key free agents thus far but also paints a bleak picture as to who the team might land moving forward. It appears Boston fans have to be content with bargain signings and aging players, as those are the only potential fits that won't be holding out for the security of a long-term contract.
Yet another reason for fans to roll their eyes with ownership and front office groups who seem to care more about the bottom line than they do about chasing greatness. That should be a clear sign that you're in the wrong business for a franchise with a history demanding excellence.