The Red Sox followed a similar model to that of recent signings.
Boston was in agreement with left-handed pitcher Patrick Sandoval on a two-year, $18.25 million contract, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. Alex Speier of The Boston Globe confirmed the report, adding that he’ll make $5.5M in 2025 and $12.75M in 2026.
Sandoval is an interesting case, as he underwent Tommy John surgery on June 26 and likely won’t make a return until midway through next season. Boston made familiar moves in recent seasons, adding James Paxton and Liam Hendriks despite each undergoing the same surgery shortly before signing.
Hendriks was hopeful to return in 2024 but ultimately was shut down for the entire season. Wyatt Mills and Michael Fulmer were added as non-roster invitees to spring training, too, continuing the trend of bringing in recently injured pitchers.
Sandoval’s numbers aren’t exactly eye-popping, as he combined to finish with a 4.45 ERA across 45 starts over the last two seasons. The Los Angeles Angels ultimately non-tendered him this offseason, making him a free agent.
The Red Sox should still have plenty of money to play with this offseason, as they’re still roughly $40 million below the first tax threshold. Sandoval likely won’t be the final starting pitcher to be added this offseason.
