Ex-Red Sox Fan Favorite Expected to Get $3.2 Million Deal; Should Boston reunite?

The Boston Red Sox still have a few holes to fill this offseason, but one that hasn’t gotten much attention so far is the bullpen.

Boston may have made a move by signing veteran backup Justin Wilson, but more needs to be done. The Red Sox bullpen had a 24th ERA at 4.39. It is clear that adding just one slinger will not help.

Additionally, bright spots like Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin are available on the open market and could sign elsewhere.

Boston needs to take the bullpen seriously this offseason and add multiple arms that can be trusted in high-leverage situations. A reunion with a former fan favorite could make sense to solve this problem.

Former Red Sox fireballer Joe Kelly is available on the open market after winning the World Series with the Los Angeles Dodgers this fall.

Spotrac currently expects him to receive a one-year deal worth approximately $3.2 million this winter. His numbers weren’t great in 2024 with a 4.78 ERA, but he was in the 98th percentile in fastball velocity. Last year he started the season with the Chicago White Sox and then returned to Los Angeles. He posted a 1.74 ERA in his final 11 appearances of the 2023 season.

Injuries played a role in his appearance in 2024. Therefore, should Boston consider at least bringing him back for spring training to see what he has left in the tank? He’s a known option who could add some swing-and-miss stuff.

The Red Sox should first look at the top of the free agent bullpen market with players like Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates, but it might also make sense to consider a reunion.

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