Last week was not particularly good for Boston Red Sox fans.
They lost star shortstop Xander Bogaerts to the San Diego Padres, who came in with $280 million reasons for him to leave Boston.
Not everything is as bad as it seems, however.
The Red Sox still have two free agent options – Carlos Correa and Dansby Swanson – to take over Bogaerts’ shortstop position.
And, additionally, they did make some signings in recent days.
They agreed to terms with plate discipline wizard Masataka Yoshida on a multi-year deal, and they brought in All-Star closer Kenley Jansen to take over the ninth inning.
The bullpen was a big problem for Boston last season, with a mediocre 4.59 ERA and lots of lost leads.
Jansen is coming to solve some of those issues.
The right-hander was introduced on Tuesday, at the legendary Fenway Park, and was spotted taking pictures with his family.
The Jansens take Fenway. pic.twitter.com/lkVGyxmUST
— Red Sox (@RedSox) December 13, 2022
He is not quite Bogaerts, but does come to fill a major need.
Jansen is not the same pitcher who accumulated 6.5 Wins Above Replacement in 2016 and 2017 combined, but he remains an effective hurler.
Jansen Can Still Make A Difference
In 2022 with the Atlanta Braves, he posted a 3.38 ERA in 64 innings, saving 41 games.
Not many relievers can stay this good and relevant for longer than a decade, but Jansen is clearly the exception to the rule.
He can still consistently dominate hitters even at 35.
The Red Sox are making a slight gamble, but it’s one that might pay off in a big way.
If they are going to compete in the tough AL East in 2023, they need certainties in the bullpen.
Now, if they can get an impactful hitter or three plus another competent starter, they can save the offseason.
They still have time.
Can they convince more free agents to go to Boston?
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