When Tyler O’Neill, who led the Red Sox with 31 homers last season, departed for Baltimore via free agency in December, it seemed Boston would replace him with someone of similar caliber.
That hasn’t happened yet. Alex Bregman remains the biggest right-handed-hitting threat on the free-agent market, but the Sox don’t seem inclined to sign him to a long-term deal.
So where does that leave Boston’s lineup in its quest for more right-handed-hitting production if Bregman winds up elsewhere?
Here are some ways the Red Sox can replace O’Neill collectively:
Story’s first three seasons in Boston were disappointing, mainly due to injuries. He has played just 163 games in three years—equivalent to one full season. Last year’s injury was unrelated to durability; it was a freak accident in which he landed on his left shoulder attempting a spectacular play in Anaheim on April 5. A prime example of an injury-prone player regaining form is Chris Sale, who won the National League Cy Young Award last season after his trade from Boston to Atlanta in December 2023. Perhaps Story is simply due for a healthy year—one that could include 25 homers and 85-90 RBIs.
One of the most exciting storylines heading into Spring Training is Kristian Campbell’s quest to make the Opening Day roster. Ranked MLB Pipeline’s No. 7 prospect and Boston’s No. 3, Campbell had a breakout first full professional season. The former Georgia Tech product could be just the right-handed hitter the Red Sox need if he makes an immediate impact as a rookie. Last season, he posted 20 homers and a .997 OPS across three minor league levels. Fenway could be particularly friendly to his skill set. Additionally, second base—one of his many playable positions—is up for grabs.
No one on the Red Sox is hungrier for redemption than Vaughn Grissom, who struggled after being acquired for Sale. He endured a season of hearing about being on the wrong end of that trade. However, after hamstring issues hampered his performance last year, Grissom is expected to enter Spring Training healthy. Before last season, he had a track record of being a solid hitter. As manager Alex Cora said at the Winter Meetings, 2024 was a mulligan for Grissom.
Rafaela’s elite defense is his calling card, but his offense remains a work in progress. His lack of plate discipline hurt him in the final months of last season. However, when Rafaela makes good swing decisions, he is capable of strong production, as evidenced by his July OPS of .812. Despite inconsistency in his rookie year, he still managed 23 doubles and 15 homers.
Remember the first half of last season when catcher Connor Wong’s improved offense was one of Boston’s biggest stories? He posted an OPS of .948 in March/April, .755 in May, and .885 in June. Unfortunately, his production declined, with a cumulative OPS of .671 over the final three months. To better withstand a full season, Wong focused on strength training this winter. With 13 homers last year, he has the raw power to push into the 20s.
With top right-handed hitters aside from Bregman off the market, there are a few platoon options with past ties to Fenway. Justin Turner would bring leadership and offensive consistency. Tommy Pham, who was added for the 2022 stretch run, fit in well during his brief stint and brings a winner’s mentality. Adam Duvall, who launched some towering shots during his lone season with the Sox in 2023, has a track record of success at Fenway dating back to his time with the Braves.
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