Article: A.J. Minter Could Be Just What the Red Sox Bullpen Needs

[Matt Corr]

The Red Sox could use a consistently solid left-handed reliever, and we all know they're not afraid to sign a pitcher who's coming off an injury.

After spending the first eight years of his career in Atlanta, free agent reliever A.J. Minter may be on the move. The Red Sox appear to be a potential landing spot for the left-handed reliever. According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, "The Red Sox are interested here, and have had multiple conversations" with the left-hander. With Chris Martin back home in Texas, adding the 31-year-old Minter to the bullpen could fill a crucial gap and provide a much-needed boost for the Sox in 2024.

He has a career 3.28 ERA, and that mark was down to 2.62 over 39 appearances during the 2024 season. Those appearances translated to just 34 1/3 innings, however, because of a left hip impingement that required season-ending surgery in August. Minter could be ready around Opening Day, and if there's one thing we've learned this offseason, it's that the Red Sox love rehabbing pitchers. Minter's velocity and strikeout rate were down a tick in 2024, and his FIP was a concerning 4.45, but keep in mind that he was trying to gut his way through an injury and wasn't pitching at 100%. MLB Trade Rumors projected him for a two-year deal worth $16 million, and for that price, I think the Sox should jump him right away. Minter has the chance to turn around and help the bullpen with his leadership and postseason experience.

If Minter can return to the form he's shown over his distinguished career, he has the potential to pitch in high-leverage situations at Fenway Park, delivering key outs in critical moments. The Red Sox have long sought consistency from their lefty relievers, and Minter’s skill set could be the perfect solution. While the bullpen remains a work in progress, adding Minter would be a step in the right direction. He's a World Series champion, and his impact could go beyond his performance on the mound, bringing veteran leadership and stability to a team looking to contend in the highly competitive AL East.

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