Should The Red Sox Pass on Shota Imanaga?
The 30-year-old lefty is expected to sign a contract worth more than $100 million.
The Boston Red Sox could miss another international star as LHP Shota Imanaga’s 45-day postseason ends next Thursday. John Thomas of NBC Sports Boston reports that the Red Sox have “never been a serious contender” for international sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto, but Boston has a different take on Imanaga.
Ken Rosenthal of the Athletics reports that Boston is in the race to land Imanaga in the next six days, and the field could be narrowing. “The three teams without starters (Mets, Yankees and Orioles) are not expected to commit to a trade.” Rosenthal said. “But the Red Sox, Giants and other teams are believed to be involved.”
Imanag, 30, is expected to receive a contract worth around $100 million. That surpasses the deal for Japanese star Kodai Senga, who signed a five-year, $75 million contract with the New York Mets in December 2022.
Despite being one of the best free agent pitchers on the market, Rosenthal believes a manager will be limited to the No. 1 starter. 3 from the South.
One executive, who spoke on condition of anonymity because club officials are barred by collective agreements from commenting publicly on the FA, said he did not believe Imanaga’s material would translate like Senga’s. However, the manager believes Imana will benefit from being the No. 1 starter. 3 and to become a member capable of rotation.”
It would be a mistake to say this prospect is mainstream, but if Senga’s ceiling is indeed at No. 3, should Boston consider investing more than $100 million in the 30-year-old?
The harsh reality for Boston is that their need for starting pitching will force them to get there one way or another. They will spend at least $100 million to land free agents including Imanaga, Jordan Montgomery and Blake Snell. Or Marcus. Stroman et al. Or, you can explore the trade market and part with a top prospect or two.
This is definitely a starting rotation with potential. But is this really the starting rotation that will put the Red Sox in postseason contention?
Even though his current salary of $36 million is below the luxury tax threshold, Boston is looking to shed some salary.
