REPORT: Red Sox To Acquire All-Star Hurler from Padres With 1.75 ERA To Replace Kenley Jansen

Should the Boston Red Sox pursue more bullpen reinforcements?

The Red Sox have had a productive offseason addressing their pitching staff. They’ve added Garrett Crochet as their new ace, signed Walker Buehler as a high-risk, high-reward free agent, and brought in Patrick Sandoval, a lefty with significant potential who is expected to return from Tommy John surgery in the second half of the season.

However, these additions are all starting pitchers. The lone bullpen upgrade has been the signing of 36-year-old Aroldis Chapman, a veteran flamethrower whom Boston hopes still has enough left in the tank.

With the departure of closer Kenley Jansen in free agency, the Red Sox could still use another reliable late-game option. One standout name remains on the market: 2024 All-Star and former San Diego Padres postseason hero Tanner Scott.

Content creator Steven Russell recently speculated in an Instagram video that Boston might sign Scott, which would significantly bolster their bullpen depth before Opening Day. “The Red Sox have been going crazy with pitching signings,” Russell said. “I love the idea of them signing Tanner Scott.”

Scott, 30, is coming off a dominant season, posting a 1.75 ERA over 72 innings with 84 strikeouts. Since 2023, he has maintained a stellar 2.04 ERA and struck out 188 batters across 150 innings. Notably, Scott has also made major strides in limiting walks, nearly halving his walk rate compared to 2021-2022.

Given the Red Sox’s emphasis on pitchers with swing-and-miss potential, Scott fits the mold perfectly. He’s arguably the best closer available and could fill a key need for Boston. The question is whether the Red Sox are willing to meet the price to secure him.