Alex Bregman signed with the Chicago Cubs on Saturday, forcing the Red Sox to look to other options on the open market.
The Red Sox quickly reversed course and agreed to a five-year, $130 million contract with Ranger Suarez, according to reports. However, that doesn’t satisfy their need for an impact bat. They hope Bregman can fill that need.
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After investing heavily in Suarez, the Red Sox may be looking for more budget-friendly options to add to their offense. Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker are both available, but Tucker would be an expensive addition to a crowded outfield, while Bichette appears poised to make more money than the Red Sox are willing to pay after signing Suarez.
Additionally, the Philadelphia Phillies appear to be dominating Bichette right now. However, Eugenio Suarez, coming off an All-Star season, is still available. Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report predicts the Red Sox will sign Suarez to fill their need for an impact bat.
Suarez was the most popular player at last year’s trade deadline. He hit 36 home runs in 106 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks before being traded to the Seattle Mariners. He struggled with the Mariners, who played at pitcher-friendly T-Mobile Park. However, he could thrive at Fenway Park.
Suarez was selected to the All-Star Game for the second time in his career last season. He hit 49 home runs and had an OPS of .824. He’s significantly cheaper than Bregman and Bichette, and he plays third base.
He will fit right into the Red Sox infield, directly replacing Bregman at hot corner. In that case, it looks like Marcelo Mayer will be manning second base, with Christian Campbell behind him in hopes of earning a spot in the majors.
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Suarez is 34 years old and just completed his 12th season in the major leagues. The Red Sox should be able to sign him to a short-term contract.
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