The Boston Red Sox rumors linger as they need bullpen assistance and are linked to Atlanta Braves left-handed reliever A.J. Minter. This is according to Chris Cotillo, who claimed that the Red Sox have had numerous conversations with the 31-year-old veteran. Minter has been loyal to the Braves as he has spent his whole career with them across eight seasons since 2017. This offseason, Minter was also to the Chicago Cubs and the New York Yankees for left-handed bullpen help. Last season, Minter sported a 5-4 record with a 2.62 ERA with 35 strikeouts. Cotillo also characterizes Minter as one of MLB’s top left-handed free-agent relievers. While Minter did undergo season-ending hip surgery towards the end of the 2024 regular season, the Red Sox remain interested in the 2021 World Series champ.
Red Sox Eye Braves Left-Handed Reliever for Bullpen Support
Minter’s Success in the Bullpen
Minter is a viable candidate for the Red Sox who owns an effective changeup that has produced a .157 xBA. Since late 2024, the Red Sox have been searching for a left-handed reliever. While Tanner Scott would be the first choice as he is ranked as the top left-handed reliever on the market, Minter would no question be cheaper. Overall, Minter would be a solid Red Sox addition to amplifying their bullpen. Minter would be an under-the-radar acquisition but still a valuable and worthy free-agent signing. Minter also has successful postseason experience, posting a 3-1 record with a 3.24 ERA and 31 punchouts in his career pitching in the postseason.
At this point in the offseason, Minter’s name has not come up as much compared to other relievers. Overall, this makes Minter a versatile reliever who has been overlooked. Minter would also be an ideal addition for the Red Sox if they are unable to acquire Philadelphia Phillies reliever and free agent Jeff Hoffman. The Red Sox have also been linked to Texas Rangers reliever Kirby Yates. If the Red Sox can acquire multiple bullpen arms, it would provide them with bullpen depth in the AL East.
Main Photo Credits: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
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