The Boston Red Sox came up way short in their World Series aspirations this season after getting swept by the Cleveland Indians in the 2016 American League Division Series. According to the latest MLB rumors, the Red Sox are looking to add the bats of Jose Bautista and Ian Desmond in their lineup next season.
The Red Sox lost one of their best run producers, David Ortiz, this season due to retirement. Big Papi had a great final season for a 40-year-player wherein he hit .315 with 38 home runs and 127 RBIs, which the Red Sox has to replace.
One of the available sluggers this offseason in the free agency market is Joey Bats, who is set to leave the Toronto Blue Jays. Bautista has hit a total of 308 home runs in his 13 years in the majors and he is a great replacement for Ortiz in the lineup as the designated hitter.
According to Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe, Bautista will not accept the qualifying offer from the Blue Jays and his proffered destination this offseason is Boston. He also noted that the 36-year-old loves playing in Fenway Park and he has previously played for Red Sox manager John Farrell and infield coach Brian Butterfield.
It should be noted that the Red Sox could also be interested in Bautista's teammate, Edwin Encarnacion, who is also set to become a free agent. However, Encarnacion is three years younger than Joey Bats so the Blue Jays are keen to retaining his services.
On the other hand, the Red Sox also needs to improve their pitching and there are speculations that outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr. will be traded for a starter. If Bradley Jr. gets traded, Boston has to fill up his spot in the outfield.
According to Tyler Mason of BoSox Injection, the Red Sox could sign Ian Desmond to a contract if they indeed trade Bradley Jr. Desmond, who signed a one-year deal with the Texas Rangers last season, had a bounce back season wherein he also become a full-time outfielder.
The 31-year-old is looking for one final big contract and the Red Sox has the money to sign. The luxury of having a player like Desmond is that he plays multiple positions. The two-time All-Star can play outfield, shortstop, first and third base.
Nevertheless, these are just rumors at the moment and should be taken with a grain of salt. Check out the video below to see Joey Bats' epic bat flip from last postseason.