The Red Sox Hire Craig Breslow: A Game Plan for the New Boss

Red Sox hire Craig Breslow: Three things new boss will need to do to pull Boston out of AL East basement

Improving Run Prevention Unit

One of the key areas that the new boss, Craig Breslow, will need to address is the Red Sox’s run prevention unit. The team’s defense has been a major weakness in recent years, particularly in the infield. According to Statcast’s Outs Above Average metric, the Red Sox have finished well below average in each of the last three seasons. In 2023, they finished with a minus-51 mark, which is the second-worst in the Statcast Era. This defensive inefficiency has put additional pressure on the pitching staff, which has struggled with a high ground-ball percentage.

To improve the team defense, Breslow will need to prioritize upgrading the infield defense. This may involve making personnel changes, finding better defensive players, or implementing better defensive strategies. While defensive metrics can be imperfect, it is clear that the Red Sox need to address this issue in order to compete at a higher level.

Putting Savings to Use

Another challenge for Breslow will be deciding how to allocate the team’s budget. Under the previous top executive, Chaim Bloom, the Red Sox focused on improving the farm system and reducing payroll. While these efforts have been largely successful, Breslow will now have the opportunity to spend some of the saved money on improving the team.

However, this offseason’s free-agent class has been heavily criticized by executives across the league. It remains to be seen who Breslow should target in free agency or if he should explore the trade market. The Red Sox, with their reduced payroll, are well-positioned to make a splash if they desire. Breslow will need to carefully assess potential acquisitions and determine the best use of the team’s resources.

Dream upon Top Prospects

One positive development during Bloom’s tenure was the improvement of the Red Sox farm system. Breslow will inherit several promising young talents who could make an impact on the team in the near future. These prospects include shortstop Marcelo Mayer, outfielder Roman Anthony, catcher Kyle Teel, second baseman Nick Yorke, and outfielder Miguel Bleis.

While Mayer has struggled in Double-A, his defensive skills and potential are still highly regarded. Anthony has shown great promise with his hitting and has the potential to become a middle-of-the-order bat. Teel and Yorke, both recent first-round picks, have exhibited their skills and could make their MLB debuts soon. Finally, Bleis, despite undergoing shoulder surgery, is a high-ceiling prospect who could become an impact player in the future.

Breslow should prioritize the development and integration of these young talents into the team’s plans. By relying on and nurturing their potential, the Red Sox can build a foundation for sustained success.

Editorial and Advice

Prioritizing a Strong Foundation

The Red Sox’s hiring of Craig Breslow signals a new chapter for the organization. After a stretch of mediocrity, it is crucial that Breslow establishes a strong foundation for future success. This includes addressing the team’s defensive weaknesses, strategically allocating resources, and nurturing the development of young prospects.

Breslow should take a page from successful organizations like the Tampa Bay Rays, where he previously worked, that have consistently excelled in building strong farm systems, implementing sound defensive strategies, and making shrewd financial decisions. By focusing on these crucial aspects, the Red Sox can position themselves to compete at the highest level in the AL East.

The Role of Analytics

In today’s game, data and analytics have become essential tools for success. Breslow, with his background in analytics and technology, should embrace the use of data-driven decision-making. By employing advanced metrics and leveraging the latest technologies, the Red Sox can gain a competitive advantage in player evaluation, defensive positioning, and game strategy.

However, Breslow must also remain cautious and critical of publicly available defensive metrics. While they can provide helpful insights, they are not without limitations. It is important to strike a balance between relying on analytics and recognizing the value of on-field observation and experience. By combining data and traditional scouting methods, Breslow can make more informed decisions for the team’s improvement.

Engaging with the Fanbase

Lastly, Breslow should prioritize engaging with the Red Sox fanbase and creating a sense of excitement and optimism. The Red Sox are a storied franchise with a passionate fanbase that expects excellence. Breslow can foster this enthusiasm by communicating with fans, addressing their concerns, and sharing the team’s vision for the future.

By creating a transparent and open dialogue with fans, Breslow can build trust and support, which will be essential in navigating the challenges that lie ahead. The Red Sox fans deserve a team that competes at a high level, and Breslow can play a pivotal role in delivering on those expectations.