Red Sox Eye Kyle Schwarber to Fill Designated Hitter Void, Replace Masataka Yoshida
The Boston Red Sox are searching for solutions to upgrade their offense after a disappointing postseason run. Losing to the New York Yankees in the American League Wild Card Series left a sour taste in the mouths of the Red Sox faithful. To address this issue, insider Jen McCaffrey suggests that Kyle Schwarber could be the answer.
Schwarber, currently with the Philadelphia Phillies, has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with at the plate, boasting 56 home runs in the National League last season and consistently producing above 38 home runs annually over the past four years. His impressive power is unmatched among active players, making him an attractive option for the Red Sox.
Schwarber's familiarity with playing in Boston is a significant bonus, having previously spent time with the team before departing for Philadelphia. His ability to hit big home runs would be a welcome addition to the Red Sox lineup, addressing one of the key areas where they need improvement.
However, Schwarber's inclusion would require some adjustments, particularly regarding Masataka Yoshida, who serves as the primary designated hitter and is under contract through 2027 for $37 million. If the Red Sox were to sign Schwarber, Yoshida's spot in the lineup would be up for grabs, potentially putting him on the trade market.
Another option that has been discussed is Pete Alonso, but McCaffrey believes Schwarber is a better choice due to his lower expected contract value, around four or five years and $130-150 million. This savings could help the Red Sox absorb Yoshida's salary if they secure a trade partner.
While there are potential drawbacks to signing Schwarber, including adding another left-handed bat to the lineup, McCaffrey argues that the benefits far outweigh the risks. With so many holes to fill this offseason, pursuing Schwarber would be a smart move, saving the Red Sox some money while bolstering their offense with a power hitter capable of reaching 50 home runs.
The Red Sox should consider signing Schwarber and address any remaining issues later on. This move could mark an important step in their quest to revitalize their lineup and propel them back into contention for a World Series title.
The Boston Red Sox are searching for solutions to upgrade their offense after a disappointing postseason run. Losing to the New York Yankees in the American League Wild Card Series left a sour taste in the mouths of the Red Sox faithful. To address this issue, insider Jen McCaffrey suggests that Kyle Schwarber could be the answer.
Schwarber, currently with the Philadelphia Phillies, has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with at the plate, boasting 56 home runs in the National League last season and consistently producing above 38 home runs annually over the past four years. His impressive power is unmatched among active players, making him an attractive option for the Red Sox.
Schwarber's familiarity with playing in Boston is a significant bonus, having previously spent time with the team before departing for Philadelphia. His ability to hit big home runs would be a welcome addition to the Red Sox lineup, addressing one of the key areas where they need improvement.
However, Schwarber's inclusion would require some adjustments, particularly regarding Masataka Yoshida, who serves as the primary designated hitter and is under contract through 2027 for $37 million. If the Red Sox were to sign Schwarber, Yoshida's spot in the lineup would be up for grabs, potentially putting him on the trade market.
Another option that has been discussed is Pete Alonso, but McCaffrey believes Schwarber is a better choice due to his lower expected contract value, around four or five years and $130-150 million. This savings could help the Red Sox absorb Yoshida's salary if they secure a trade partner.
While there are potential drawbacks to signing Schwarber, including adding another left-handed bat to the lineup, McCaffrey argues that the benefits far outweigh the risks. With so many holes to fill this offseason, pursuing Schwarber would be a smart move, saving the Red Sox some money while bolstering their offense with a power hitter capable of reaching 50 home runs.
The Red Sox should consider signing Schwarber and address any remaining issues later on. This move could mark an important step in their quest to revitalize their lineup and propel them back into contention for a World Series title.