Red Sox rotation needs help – Martín Pérez could be the answer
The Red Sox need starting pitching help if they want to be legitimate contenders in the American League this season.
Boston’s rotation has shown troubling inconsistency beyond Garrett Crochet’s excellence. Tanner Houck’s recent implosion (11 earned runs in his last start) isn’t necessarily cause for panic from an All-Star, but Walker Buehler’s ongoing struggles combined with injuries to Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito have exposed a clear weakness that needs addressing before the trade deadline.
One potential solution? White Sox lefty Martín Pérez.
Newsweek’s Andrew Wright specifically identified Pérez as an ideal trade target for Boston. With Chicago likely to sell at the deadline, the veteran southpaw could attract multiple suitors.
“Headed into Friday’s games, the Red Sox are tied for No. 20 in team ERA at 4.17, the New York Yankees being the other team with that same number,” Wright noted. “Pérez’s 1.59 ERA is lower than four of the five starters in the Boston rotation, with Garrett Crochet being the only one with a better mark. Pérez could join the Red Sox rotation as either a starter or a long reliever/swingman type. Whichever one it may be, the veteran left-hander would be a solid addition to the Boston staff.”
Pérez has been solid through four starts this season, posting a 3.15 ERA. The former All-Star comes with a manageable $5 million salary for 2024 and includes a mutual option for 2026 with a $1.5 million buyout.
What makes Pérez particularly appealing is his versatility. Even when Boston’s rotation returns to full strength, he offers value as either a starter or reliever, having experience in both roles throughout his career. That flexibility, combined with his reasonable contract, makes him a low-risk addition that could significantly improve Boston’s pitching depth.
