The Boston Red Sox are actively seeking to strengthen their bullpen ahead of the 2025 MLB season, particularly focusing on acquiring a reliable closer. Despite signing veteran relievers Aroldis Chapman and Liam Hendriks during the offseason, concerns persist regarding their consistency and health. Chapman, now 37, has exhibited control issues in recent seasons, while Hendriks is recovering from significant health challenges, including cancer and Tommy John surgery. These uncertainties have prompted the Red Sox to explore additional options to solidify their ninth-inning role.
One prominent name linked to the Red Sox is St. Louis Cardinals’ All-Star closer, Ryan Helsley. Helsley led the league with 49 saves in 2024 and has maintained a remarkable 1.83 ERA since 2022. Given the Cardinals’ current rebuilding phase, trading Helsley could align with their long-term strategy, making him a viable target for Boston. Acquiring Helsley would provide the Red Sox with a dependable and elite option to secure late-game leads.
Another potential candidate is Seattle Mariners’ closer, Andrés Muñoz. At 26, Muñoz has delivered three consecutive seasons with a sub-3.00 ERA, recording 22 saves and 77 strikeouts over 60 games in the previous season. His youth and performance make him an attractive long-term solution for Boston’s bullpen. However, acquiring Muñoz would likely require the Red Sox to part with valuable assets, possibly including left-handed hitters such as Wilyer Abreu or Masataka Yoshida, to meet the Mariners’ needs.
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