The Red Sox could emerge as the Yankees’ biggest rival in the American League East this season.
While the Orioles are brimming with young talent, their offseason left some questions. Baltimore lost ace Corbin Burnes and power-hitting outfielder Anthony Santander to free agency, and their most notable addition was former Yankee Gary Sánchez.
In contrast, Boston has been proactive, trading for left-hander Garrett Crochet and signing Walker Buehler, positioning themselves as serious contenders this year. After also securing veteran infielder Alex Bregman to a short-term deal late Wednesday night, they’ve only strengthened their roster.
“[The Red Sox] got a good player,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone remarked Thursday in Yankees camp, commenting on Bregman’s acquisition. “They’ve had what seems like a really good winter. We saw a lot of their talent and athleticism last year. It looks like they’re putting together a really strong team.”
Alex Bregman
The Red Sox finished 81-81 last year, marking their third consecutive season without a postseason appearance. However, their front office deserves credit for being aggressive in both the financial and prospect areas, bringing in Bregman and investing in Crochet this winter.
Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, who played alongside Bregman in Houston, praised the two-time World Series champion, recognizing him as a tough at-bat. “I think they’re a dangerous team,” Cole said. “They’ve added to their already strong lineup and have some solid starting pitchers. This division is always tough, and they were in the mix last year, so I expect more of the same.”
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