2023 MLB Free Agent Preview: Xander Bogaerts
The Boston Red Sox have to buckle up this offseason as they could lose one of their biggest stars and fan favorites. Shortstop Xander Bogaerts joins a deep free agent class after opting out of his contract on Monday.
2022 Review
It was another incredible season for Bogaerts who has been a model of consistency for the Red Sox. Bogaerts batted .307/.377/.456 with a 5.7 WAR this season. His 134 wRC+ was second-best in all of baseball among shortstops and was selected to the All-Star game for the fourth time in his career.
Potential Landing Spots
It’s likely the 30-year-old stays with the Sox. It’ll have to be a high raise though, as Bogaerts has certainly outplayed the $20 million a year he was making in Boston.
Boston Red Sox
As I said, it’s very likely he stays. The shortstop loves Boston and has already won two rings with the team. The Red Sox would also love to keep him paired with Rafael Devers, who they also have to pay soon. Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom made it clear that Bogaerts preferred shortstop and that the team will definitely do everything in their power to keep him.
Philadelphia Phillies
While the Phillies seem to be favorites for Trea Turner, it’s always good to have options. Coming off a World Series appearance the Phillies will be beyond aggressive over the offseason. President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski knows Bogaerts all too well from his time in Boston, giving the Phillies an advantage.
San Francisco Giants
The Giants are already linked to big names such as Aaron Judge this offseason. Their infield could use some reinforcements as well, as guys like Brandon Crawford aren’t getting any younger. While the Giants may look to improve pitching first, they’ll have to be willing to spend if they want to get pasted the Dodgers and Padres.
Chicago Cubs
Yet again the Cubs could be in the mix for one of the top-tier shortstops. Despite being 30 years old, that could end up being more beneficial for the Cubs. Bogaerts could fill a defensive hole in the middle infield until the Cubs can find a younger option. By then, his bat will be more valuable than his defense and will still be able to produce in the lineup. The Cubs could do nothing, but they have the potential and money to go big.
The Verdict
I don’t see Bogaerts leaving Boston. I’m also not sure if other teams will jump on him as quickly simply because of his age and defensive ability. Not to say he isn’t a top free agent, but he loves Boston and they seem to be willing to give him a raise. It would be a shame for him to leave like Mookie Betts, so hopefully, the Red Sox can make it work.
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