The Red Sox reportedly considered trading an All-Star pitcher before the last trade deadline.
The atmosphere at the Boston Red Sox’s spring training this year feels unusual, with hints that roster changes may still occur. Despite questions about who will be the Opening Day starter, many are hoping for an external addition like Jordan Montgomery. However, manager Alex Cora must proceed as if the team is finalized and hope for additional support.
Adding to the unease is the possibility that some players currently at Fort Myers could be traded at any moment, which is uncommon for this point in the offseason. The Red Sox have reportedly had significant trade discussions involving closer Kenley Jansen, with talks extending back longer than a few months.
While there is currently no imminent deal involving Jansen, the Red Sox previously discussed trading him to Arizona last summer but did not find a suitable offer. Jansen, 36, had a solid season in 2023, with a 3.63 ERA, 52 strikeouts, a .237 batting average against, and a 1.28 WHIP in 44 2/3 innings, converting 29 of 33 save opportunities.
Despite Jansen’s continued effectiveness, his $16 million salary for the upcoming season, the final year of his contract with the Red Sox, is a factor. The Red Sox, aiming for financial prudence, would prefer to offload his salary before making significant additions, as they are cautious about approaching the luxury tax threshold.
Boston has been in a pattern of both trading away and retaining certain players for years and needs to decide on a clear direction. This decision-making process could involve trading or keeping Jansen during spring training. Currently, it seems more likely that Jansen will remain with the team, and any external additions would be modest.
