MLB Tribune

Boston Red Sox in Need of Depth

by Scooter on 12/29/2009 in Red Sox Blogs

The Red Sox had some what of a busy winter. They acquired pitcher John Lackey and outfielder Mike Cameron. I just don’t understand the signing of Mike Cameron for $15MM for 2 years who turns 37 in a week was more of a priority than resigning Jason Bay. This is not an upgrade over Jason Bay unless it was for defensive reasons.

I think Theo Epstein needs to bring in another outfielder, but they’re flirting with the luxury tax. The Red Sox, like the Yankees, will need to get a bargain basement OF. I know some Red Sox fans are hoping for a Bay signing, but I don’t think Theo Epstein will pull the trigger on this due to the luxury tax.

The Red Sox are at or near $170mm, currently only $25mm less than the Yanks who have more depth and superstars. However, the Red Sox will have 55M coming off the books after 2010 and this will give them more options as the 2010 free agency market will be rich with superstars.

The Red Sox will have an outfield of Cameron (LF), Ellsbury (CF) and Hermida (RF), which is not that bad, but not great. If I were Theo Epstein, I would leave this outfield as is and concentrate more on the infield. The Red Sox are in need of infield depth at the corners. The Red Sox will probably move Kevin Youkilis to third, and play Casey Kotchman at first. David Ortiz is declining and should be the DH full time.

As far as pitching goes, they could use a little more depth in the bullpen. I doubt the Red Sox are set with their bullpen and I expect they will sign at least 2 more arms by spring training.

Red Sox Opening Day Roster Prediction

1. Ellsbury CF
2. Pedroia 2B
3. Victor Martinez C
4. Ortiz DH
5. Youkilis 3B
6. Kotchman 1B
7. Drew RF
8. Scutaro SS
9. Cameron LF

Not a bad lineup and with consistent pitching, they could be playoff bound.

What are your predictions for the Red Sox in 2010?