Report: Sandoval, Headley among 3rd base options Red Sox are exploring
The Boston Red Sox need help at third base and free agency offers more than one intriguing option.
Jon Heyman of CBS Sports is reporting that the Red Sox are prioritizing Pablo Sandoval and Chase Headley as their main free agent targets at the hot corner this offseason. Aramis Ramirez also may come under consideration.
Once heralded as an up-and-coming prospect, Will Middlebrooks seems to have exhausted the patience of the Red Sox front office. The oft-injured 26-year-old has appeared in 157 games over the last two seasons, while slashing .213/.265/.364 with 168 strikeouts, in addition to hitting 19 home runs and 68 RBIs.
The Red Sox received dismal production from the third base position in 2014, posting a league-worst .211 average, while managing 10 home runs.
| Player | AGE | GP | HR | RBI | AVG/OBP/SLG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sandoval | 28 | 157 | 16 | 73 | .279/.324/.415 |
| Headley | 30 | 135 | 13 | 49 | .243/.328/.372 |
| Ramirez | 36 | 133 | 15 | 66 | .285/.330/.427 |
| Red Sox's 3B | N/A | N/A | 10 | 54 | .211/.271/.308 |
While Sandoval would be the best upgrade, he's not going to come cheap. The Giants are fully expecting to re-sign the hulking third baseman, who is looking for a deal north of $100 million.
The Yankees have expressed interest in re-signing Headley, in case Alex Rodriguez isn't able to play third base. Headley appeared in 58 games for New York after being acquired from the San Diego Padres in late-July.
The Brewers and Ramirez have a $14-million option for 2015 that will likely be exercised. If Ramirez declines, Heyman notes that the Brewers would have to then decide whether to offer him the $15.3-million qualifying offer.