Red Sox Sign Patrick Sandoval, Eye Future Rotation Boost with $18.25M Deal
December 20, 2024Patrick Sandoval, a left-handed pitcher, has signed a two-year, $18.25 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, leaving behind a six-season tenure with the Los Angeles Angels.
Sandoval's contract is considered a solid investment, with an annual value of under $10 million, especially given his potential upside if he returns to form.
Overall, while Sandoval's signing may not be a blockbuster move, it holds potential significance for the Red Sox's pitching future.
In addition to Sandoval, the Red Sox are exploring further acquisitions, including right-handed bats like Alex Bregman and Teoscar Hernández, as they aim to bolster their lineup.
Despite some inconsistency, he demonstrated potential with a 3.53 ERA over 69 starts from 2021 to 2023, accumulating 373 strikeouts in 380.1 innings.
The Red Sox view this signing as a strategic move to enhance their pitching rotation, reflecting a forward-thinking approach by chief baseball officer Craig Breslow.
At 28 years old, Sandoval is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery and is expected to make his return in the latter half of the 2025 season.
The Red Sox are optimistic about Sandoval's future, believing they can further develop his talent, similar to their previous successes with pitchers like Andrew Bailey.
Sandoval has expressed a commitment to improving his performance and fostering a positive team environment, acknowledging the need to manage his emotions better on the mound.
While the signing carries risks, particularly regarding his recovery from surgery, advanced metrics suggest that Sandoval may have been somewhat unlucky in recent seasons.
Fans are eager for management to make impactful moves this offseason, and the Red Sox have approximately $40 million available for additional signings.
Sandoval's departure from the Angels marks a significant moment for their fans, who had high hopes for him following his breakout performance in 2022.
Summary based on 32 sources
Get a daily email with more MLB stories
Sources
The Athletic • Dec 20, 2024
Red Sox agree to deal with rehabbing starter Patrick Sandoval: SourcesCBS Boston • Dec 20, 2024
Red Sox reportedly sign lefty starter Patrick Sandoval to two-year dealNewsweek • Dec 21, 2024
Red Sox Sign Lefty Hurler To Bolster Rotation With Familiar CircumstancesESPN • Dec 20, 2024
Sources - Patrick Sandoval, Red Sox agree to 2-year, $18.25M deal - ESPN