Corbin Burnes would be a game-changer for the Boston Red Sox’s rotation, but his potential acquisition carries significant implications. Burnes, the 2021 NL Cy Young winner, has been a consistent ace, with a 2.88 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, and four All-Star appearances since 2020. His performance over the past few seasons has established him as one of the top free-agent pitchers available this winter, making him an attractive target for teams like the Red Sox, who have struggled to find a true No. 1 starter since Chris Sale’s prime.
Should the Red Sox pursue Burnes, it would signal a commitment to bolster their rotation with a bona fide ace, something their current staff, including young pitchers like Brayan Bello and Tanner Houck, lacks. A reliable workhorse like Burnes would elevate their pitching staff significantly. However, signing Burnes won’t come cheap. His asking price could top $200 million, and while the Red Sox have shown signs of increasing their payroll, it’s unclear if they’re willing to meet such a high demand.
Additionally, the Red Sox would need to clear room in their budget, as this kind of investment would require significant financial commitment, especially with the team’s broader roster needs. If they are willing to make this move, it could reshape the outlook for their pitching staff and overall competitiveness in 2025. However, competing against other suitors with deeper pockets, like the New York Yankees or Los Angeles Dodgers, could complicate matters.