Straining? It’s easy.
I have several reasons to think the Sox stay on a budget. They include 2021, 2022, 2023.
I also don’t buy into “replace Player X” when looked at in a vacuum.
2025 vs 2026 to date
C: Narvaez vs Narvaez. I could see getting a better catcher. Sox have been rumored to be in on a few. But for now - status quo
1b - Abraham Toro v Willson Contreras. Toro lead the team in PAs from 1b. The Sox have upgraded.
SS - Story vs Story. We will leave him at SS for now and call it status quo.
OF - Duran/Rafaela/Abreu vs, hmmm let’s say Anthony/Rafaela/Abreu. It’s close. 2026 probably gets a slight edge
DH: Devers vs Yoshida. Devers is better but Yoshida is a good hitter. Plus at some point I expect Casas and Romy in the mix. While no Devers, that trio is probably an upgrade over the last 90 games from the Sox.
2b or 3b is a mystery for 2026. If they get Marte, the lineup is pribably better. A lot does depend on a Duran trade…