I don't think people argued going for 2 #2's because the Sox have never gone out and done that kind of thing before. If it was a realistic option in November, you may have some people buy in at that time.
In '22 when Trout had 40 HR, Ohtani had 34 (9.6 bWAR with pitching) and Sandoval had an ERA under 3, the rest of the offense was so bad (4 everyday starters under 700) that the Angels were 25th in runs, 24th in defense, 1st in k%. Record was 73-89!
Even if the players eventually work out in year 3 or 4, the years of control are already halfway over. It just makes no sense. There is every reason in the world to give a player an extra few years of seasoning prior to being promoted (years of control, PPI, better developed tools).
Yorke - hit over power
Mayer - all around player
Romero - power over hit (hasn't made it to MLB yet)
Angels rushed guys to the bigs and it hasn't always worked out (Schanuel, Paris, Adell).
Rafaela had a 899 OPS from 5/28-8/3. There weren't many people on here saying he couldn't hit during that stretch (200 PA's). If he wasn't moved to the IF, maybe he continues to hit well?
If they believed in Duran long term and the importance of defense at Fenway, they would have tried:
Anthony LF
Duran CF
Rafaela RF
I think they believe Abreu has room to grow and Duran is closer to taking steps backwards, which is why they are going year to year with him.