Red Sox Plans Aggressive Pitching Moves Amid Key Performance Concerns

The Red Sox returned to the postseason for the first time since 2021 but were bumped by the Yankees in a three-game Wild Card, with late-season themes — poor execution with runners in scoring position and costly defensive miscues (including Jarren Duran’s drop and an outfield miscommunication) — playing a decisive role. Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow highlighted that Boston led the AL in errors for a third straight year even as its outfield defense rated among the best, and he said the club will examine defensive coaching and fundamentals. Offense also flagged under pressure: the club showed power earlier in 2025 but managed only one homer in the Wild Card and tailed off in September, prompting Breslow to say they’re open to adding more home-run power. On the mound, Breslow praised Garrett Crochet but wants another reliable starter to anchor innings; Paul Skenes has been floated as a potential blockbuster target, with Jarren Duran often mentioned as a possible trade chip though Pittsburgh is reportedly reluctant to move Skenes. Alex Bregman — a key veteran on and off the field — is widely expected to have the right to opt out and test free agency this winter, a development Boston views as significant. Overall, the front office says it will be “open to all possible pathways” this offseason to shore up the rotation, add power, improve situational hitting, and reduce defensive lapses as it pursues a deeper run in 2026.