The Boston Red Sox have done almost everything the needed to this offseason to set them up to contend in 2015. They added some potency to their lineup with proven hitters, they filled out the back end of their rotation, and they moved some players to carve out playing time for their young players to develop.
Cubs In Play For James Shields?
The one thing that the team has not done so far is acquire a starting pitcher that can headline their rotation. In the eyes of many, that is the final piece that Boston needs to make themselves legitimate playoff contenders.
The Sox passed on Max Scherzer, and they do not appear interested in James Shields, both of which could prove wise moves, as history is not exactly filled with 30-plus year old free agent pitchers that lived up to their contracts. The team wanted Jon Lester badly, but he elected to sign elsewhere.
Phillies Foolish For Stalling On Hamels Trade?
The trade market for Cole Hamels has cooled, and the Nationals probably want more for their studs that Boston is willing to give, so it would seem that the team will not find their ace. But if they are willing to take a chance, they could find one, and he could be a huge bargain, according to BoSox Injection.
Former Atlanta Braves pitcher Brandon Beachy is still available on the free agent market. The young pitcher has suffered repeated injuries, which has earned him the dreaded "injury-prone" label, and it appears to be scaring teams off. While he undeniably has major risks, he would be a smart gamble for Boston.
Because of his history (two Tommy John surgeries), Boston could probably sign Beachy for a short-term deal worth very little money. If Beachy were to get injured again, the loss would be minimal. But if he stayed healthy and returned to form, he could be the ace Boston needs.
Beachy looked like an elite pitcher before his injuries. He started 25 games in 2011, posting a 3.68 ERA and striking out 10.7 batters per nine innings. In 2012, he was even better, posting a 2.00 ERA, although his strikeout numbers did dip a bit.
Obviously recovering from one major surgery is not a sure thing, let alone two. But Boston's risk would be minimal, and if they got 2012 - or even 2011 - Beachy, they would have the top starter they need to round out their team.
Below, you can see some of Beachy's highlights when he was at his best.
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