Ex-Astros, Blue Jays Hurler Reportedly Available; Red Sox Are Logical Landing Spot

Could the Red Sox pursue the former Astros and Blue Jays hurler this offseason?

The Boston Red Sox still have some holes to fill this offseason.

Boston has made some intriguing additions, but there still is more work that needs to be done. The Red Sox desperately need to improve the starting rotation and it wouldn't hurt to add another hurler or two to the bullpen.

The Red Sox's bullpen certainly was better in 2023 than it was in 2022, but the club still needs to make a move or two this offseason. 

One player who is available who could make some sense for Boston is former Houston Astros reliever Matt Gage. The 30-year-old reportedly was designated for assignment by the club and now is available, according to The Athletic's Chandler Rome. 

"Source: the Astros have DFAd left-hander Matt Gage," Rome said. "They are expected to make the Josh Hader signing official pretty soon."

Gage has appeared in just 11 games at the big league level over the last two seasons and has allowed just four runs over that stretch with a 20-to-9 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

He was selected in the 10th round of the 2014 Major League Baseball June Amateur Draft by the San Francisco Giants and eventually made his big league debut with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2022. He joined the Astros ahead of the 2023 campaign.

Although he hasn't had much time in the big league, he also has been impressive in the minor leagues throughout his professional career. Gage has a 3.97 ERA across 224 minor-league appearances.

If the Red Sox are looking to add to the bullpen still, Gage could be a very cheap option with upside. Why not take a chance on him?

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