MLB Rumors: Red Sox Among ‘Potential Suitors’ For Primetime Ace

The Boston Red Sox need a proven frontline starting pitcher for next season and they have plenty of options available to them in free agency.

Some might be more realistic targets than others, but MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand believes the Red Sox are among the “potential suitors” for arguably the top arm on the free agent market.

That would be Corbin Burnes, and the veteran right-hander would fill an obvious hole in Boston’s starting staff.

“The rotation is lacking a frontline ace, a role Burnes could fill as the Red Sox look to return to the postseason for the first time since 2021,” Feinsand wrote.

Burnes spent last season with the Orioles, but it reportedly is a “long shot” that he rejoins Baltimore. The 30-year-old delivered an All-Star campaign in 2024, posting a 15-9 record over 32 starts with a 2.92 ERA, 1.096 WHIP and 181 strikeouts in 194 1/3 innings.

That’s exactly the type of production the Red Sox need to add to their rotation, but it won’t come cheap. Feinsand spoke with an anonymous MLB executive who predicted Burnes would land a contract in the ballpark of six years and $175 million.

It’s a heavy price tag, but understandable given Burnes’ caliber. And more money could be thrown Burnes’ way if a bidding war takes place. That seems possible due to the amount of teams Feinsand believes will be in on Burnes.

Feinsand noted he sees the Orioles, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Angels, San Francisco Giants, Detroit Tigers and San Diego Padres as teams who could challenge the Red Sox in the Burnes sweepstakes.