As the Boston Red Sox shift their focus to the offseason, catcher isn’t expected to be high on their list of priorities.
Carlos Narváez established himself as the primary option behind the plate this season, while Connor Wong endured a difficult campaign as the backup — casting doubt on his future with the team as he enters his first year of arbitration.
Although Wong remains an affordable option and could still get another shot despite going homerless this season, insider Chris Cotillo suggests that a reunion with one of Wong’s former teammates could also be in play, either on a major-league deal or a minor-league invite.
Could Red Sox bring back Christian Vázquez?
On Wednesday, Chris Cotillo suggested that the Red Sox could consider a reunion with Christian Vázquez — a key member of Boston’s 2018 championship team and the 2022 Houston Astros World Series squad — this offseason. The move could come either as a direct replacement for Connor Wong (though that’s less likely) or as a minor-league signing to bolster depth behind the plate.
“There’s a small chance the Red Sox look to the free-agent market for an upgrade at backup catcher — particularly if defense becomes a priority — which could put Wong’s roster spot in jeopardy through a non-tender or trade,” Cotillo wrote. “There aren’t many strong options available beyond top free agent J.T. Realmuto. Familiar faces like Christian Vázquez and Danny Jansen are among the available catchers. There will be a depth move or two, as usual, and if Vázquez is open to a minor-league deal, his close connection with Alex Cora could help spark a reunion in spring training.”
While Vázquez has enjoyed an accomplished 11-year career, his three-year, $30 million deal with the Minnesota Twins was largely disappointing. Over that span, he managed just a .577 OPS and posted a -0.1 bWAR.
Now approaching his age-35 season, it’s unlikely he’ll draw major interest from teams seeking a starting-caliber catcher. If a minor-league deal is indeed his best path forward, the Red Sox would likely view him as a preferable option compared to the revolving door of backups — Blake Sabol, Ali Sánchez, Seby Zavala, and Chadwick Tromp — they cycled through this past season.
It’s still early in the offseason, but a reunion between Vázquez and Boston seems plausible — provided it comes on the team’s terms.
