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Based on an analysis by
ESPN's
Jeff Passan,
the market for free-agent closer Craig Kimbrel may be down to the Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies. As Passan points out, some of the
other potential suitors that have been previously mentioned (like the Angels, White Sox, Twins, Rays and Braves) have gone in other directions. According to Passan, only the Phillies and their "stupid money" remain in the way of Kimbrel returning to the Boston bullpen at
much less than his desired six years and $100 million. Truth be told, a Kimbrel return is probably the most prudent course of action for
Dave Dombrowski—otherwise, we face a relief corp "anchored" by the likes of
Heath Hembree,
Matt Barnes and
Ryan Brasier. That's probably not going to get the job done. So, if Boston can land Kimbrel on—say— a three-year deal in the $60-$70 million range (with a fourth-year mutual option), then sign him. It may not the best solution, but it's a lot better than what we're facing right now.
