Why the Red sox will win the AL east
The Boston Red Sox are entering the 2025 MLB season with a revamped roster that positions them as one of the top contenders in the American League East. After a somewhat disappointing 2024 campaign, where they finished at .500, the Red Sox made some key offseason moves that have not only bolstered their pitching staff but also added significant power and defensive stability to their infield. With a mix of experience and youth, this team looks poised for a bounce-back year.
The Walker Buehler Signing: A Boost to the Rotation
One of the most significant moves the Red Sox made in the offseason was the signing of Walker Buehler, the former ace of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Buehler, known for his electric stuff and a Cy Young-caliber season in 2021, missed all of 2024 due to recovery from Tommy John surgery. However, the Red Sox took a calculated risk by offering him a one-year contract worth $21 million, with the expectation that he can regain his dominant form.
Adding a healthy Buehler to a rotation that already features some promising young arms gives Boston a legitimate frontline starter. If he returns to his 2019-2021 form, he could be the ace the Red Sox need to challenge the other powerhouse rotations in the AL East.
The Alex Bregman Addition: A Strong Offensive Presence
Alongside their pitching upgrade, the Red Sox made another splash by acquiring third baseman Alex Bregman from the Houston Astros. Bregman, a two-time World Series champion, brings a wealth of postseason experience and a bat that has consistently produced at the highest levels of the game. Bregman is a strong contact hitter, with the ability to hit for power and get on base, making him a perfect fit in the middle of Boston’s lineup.
What makes this signing even more significant is Bregman’s willingness to shift from third base to second base, a move that speaks to his versatility and team-first mentality. This will allow Rafael Devers to remain entrenched at third base, where he is most comfortable, and for Bregman to strengthen an already potent infield. With his Gold Glove-caliber defense and leadership qualities, Bregman will add a crucial element to the Red Sox’s infield.
Strengthening the Pitching Depth
The Red Sox didn’t stop at just Buehler; they also made other moves to ensure the depth of their pitching staff. With a combination of experienced arms and up-and-coming talent, the team now has a much stronger bullpen and a rotation that can compete with the best of the AL East. Adding these pieces should allow manager Alex Cora to have more flexibility and reliability when managing the pitching staff through a long season.
A Balanced Lineup
Boston’s offense in 2025 has the potential to be one of the most balanced in the AL East. With the combination of Bregman, Devers, and rising stars like Masataka Yoshida and Triston Casas, the Red Sox will be able to provide offensive production from multiple spots in the lineup. This balance is crucial when facing off against some of the best pitching staffs in the division.
Final Thoughts
With their offseason moves, the Red Sox are making a serious push to contend for the AL East title in 2025. The additions of Walker Buehler and Alex Bregman, along with a bolstered bullpen and an improved offensive lineup, provide the team with the depth and versatility they need to compete at the highest level. As the season progresses, Boston will look to leverage these changes to challenge for a postseason berth and beyond.
If Buehler can return to his pre-injury form and Bregman continues to hit at a high level, the Red Sox could find themselves back in the mix of elite teams in the American League, with a strong chance to not only compete in the AL East but to also make a deep postseason run.
