The Red Sox are looking to improve their rotation this winter, but it remains to be seen how exactly that will play out. They have previously been connected to top free agents such as Corbin Burnes, Max Fried and Blake Snell, as well as trade candidate Garrett Crochet.
As it stands, the Red Sox' current rotation is a mixed bag of talents, with some players more proven than others. Brayan Bello, who was impressive during his limited outings last season, is expected to step up into a more prominent role, while the likes of Tanner Houck and James Paxton are also key players to watch.
However, with the team badly in need of an ace, the Red Sox' reported interest in Burnes is not surprising. Burnes is one of the best pitchers in baseball, with a dominating last two seasons that have established him as one of the most prized free agents of the offseason.
Burnes' combination of experience and durability would make him a superb fit for the Red Sox. He has a full slate of pitches and has proven to be effective against all types of hitters. Furthermore, with the ability to go deep into games, Burnes would undoubtedly be a huge upgrade on what Boston has right now.
While the Red Sox are not expected to outmuscle teams like the Mets and Giants in the bidding war for Burnes, they are still expected to be in the mix. Given their deep farm system, Boston may also consider dipping into the trade market to bolster its rotation.
One trade candidate who has garnered the team's interest is Garrett Crochet. A left-handed pitcher who shows considerable upside, Crochet has been more effective against lefty hitters but has the arsenal to potentially fulfill a pivotal role in the rotation.
As for the likes of Fried and Snell, who are the other notable free-agent starters on the market, they would each be more than solid acquisition options, one which could provide even more vitality to the new-look rotation.
Getting at least one of these top arms would provide the Red Sox the jumpstart to the winter that would change the complexion of the American League.