Despite facing challenges staying on the field this season, Tyler O’Neill has been one of the most effective hitters in the American League, boasting 31 home runs and a 138 OPS+. His strong performance comes at an opportune moment, as he will be a free agent at season’s end. Could he be heading back to Fenway next year? The Red Sox have a bit of a roster crunch in the outfield, with Roman Anthony nearing a call-up alongside Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela, Wilyer Abreu, and the potential addition of Masataka Yoshida. Nonetheless, O’Neill enjoys playing here and would be eager to return.
In addition to seeking a lucrative free agent contract, O’Neill might also be in the running for the American League Comeback Player of the Year award.
Chris Martin is another pending free agent. If he remains with the Red Sox, it will likely be on a one-year deal, as he seems ready to retire.
Regardless of Martin’s situation, Craig Breslow will have significant work ahead to revamp the bullpen this offseason. One certainty is that Justin Slaten will play a crucial role in late-game situations.
Rebuilding the bullpen will be even more challenging if pending free agent Kenley Jansen departs. Many fans believe he is unhappy in Boston, but his willingness to pitch through injury for a team out of contention raises questions about that perception.
Meanwhile, Tanner Houck aims to finish the season strong, just like Trevor Story, who has also been performing well. According to Triston Casas, the highlight of Story’s return has been seeing him in the shower.
