3 Last-Minute Free Agents the Red Sox Need to Sign Before Spring Training

Pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training this week, so the MLB offseason is nearly over. There's still time to make some last-minute moves, though, even for teams like the Boston Red Sox that have already had a busy offseason.

For all their additions this winter, the Red Sox still have some question marks and areas for improvement heading into 2023. While the free-agent market has been mostly picked over at this point, there are still a few impact players available that could improve Boston's roster.

Here are three last-minute free agents the Red Sox should consider signing before Spring Training begins.

Red Sox Free Agency Rumors

1. Michael Wacha, SP

Wacha was one of Boston's best offseason signings last winter, going 11-2 with a 3.32 ERA in 23 starts. The former All-Star remains unsigned, however, as teams are apparently spooked by his age (31), injury history and inconsistent performance. The Red Sox could still use rotation depth, however, and Wacha is the best remaining starting pitcher on the market. He should be affordable and has already proven he can handle Boston's high-pressure environment, so a reunion makes a ton of sense. Don't be surprised if the Sox scoop him up on a cheap deal for 1-2 years.

2. Jurickson Profar, INF

With Xander Bogaerts in San Diego and Trevor Story on the IL for the foreseeable future, Boston's middle infield looks incredibly shaky. Kike Hernandez, Christian Arroyo, and Adalberto Mondesi are all risky options given their recent injury woes and poor performance, so Boston would benefit from some additional depth here. Profar would fit the bill nicely given his experience at second base, shortstop, and the outfield, making him easy to plug in. He's also a switch-hitter, so he brings plenty of versatility to the table along with some pop after bashing 36 doubles and 15 home runs for the Padres last year. Profar would also benefit from moving to Fenway Park, which is a much better hitting environment than Petco Park.

3. Odubel Herrera, OF

Herrera looked like a promising player for the Philadelphia Phillies for several years before injuries derailed his career. The 31-year-old former All-Star has some rebound potential, though, after averaging 15 home runs, 14 stolen bases and a .763 OPS with the Phillies from 2015-2018. Philadelphia is a similar atmosphere to Boston, so Herrera shouldn't have any issues making the transition. He also has a lot of experience playing center field, which could be a problem area for the Red Sox if newcomer Adam Duvall doesn't perform as expected.