Veteran Hurler Reportedly Interested In Returning To Red Sox After Strong Season

Should the Red Sox consider bringing back one of the club's starting pitchers?

The Boston Red Sox will be busy this offseason as the club looks to shore up its roster for the 2024 campaign. 

Boston significantly more likely than not won't make the postseason this year, but is much closer to a spot than many expected it to be. The big question mark the Red Sox are going to have to address this offseason certainly is the starting rotation. When Boston starters have pitched at least five innings, the club has looked like a playoff team. Although this is the case, Boston starters haven't been able to pitch deep into games this season and it has caused struggles.

The Red Sox will at least need to add one or two hurlers this offseason as the club looks to get back into contention. One player whose future is in question is James Paxton. The big lefty impressed for the Red Sox this season but will be a free agent this upcoming offseason. Paxton reportedly is interested in returning, but discussions haven't been held yet according to the Boston Globe's Alex Speier. 

"Paxton said he has enjoyed his time with the Sox," Speier said. "Originally signed to a one-year, $6 million deal in 2022 that included both a two-year, $26 million team option and a one-year, $4 million player option, Paxton exercised his option to return to Boston in 2023. He expressed openness to another return, but he hasn’t discussed the subject with the club.

“We haven’t had those conversations,” said Paxton as transcribed by Speier. “I’ve had a good experience here. I like pitching here, being part of this team, this club. But there haven’t been any conversations about what’s coming after this. It’s kind of a mystery to me as well."

Paxton is an interesting name to watch on the market. He arguably was Boston's best pitcher for a few months this season, but injuries hampered him toward the end and ended his season early. The lefty made 19 starts for Boston this season and compiled a 4.50 ERA and 1.2 wins above replacement this season. 

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