Hope in Beantown

OmahaBaseball · 10-31-2024, 03:40 PM

While I continue to enjoy my historical Boston Americans franchise thread, I've realized that I miss playing out the modern game as well. Now that I have made the switch over to OOTP 25, I am starting a Boston Red Sox franchise thread for the 2024 season using CBL's "Opening Day" rosters.

Now admittedly, I am not sure how long this one will last but I wanted to give it a shot. I am looking to improve on the 2024 "real-life" Boston season, as it did not go as well as I would have hoped for. I am optimistic that I can at least do as well the team did this season and play at .500 ball, but my aim is to make a legitimate push for a wild card spot. I hope is to find the right balance of where I can stay competitive while still lowering salary and finding future talent without having to tank for a few years.

Similar to my historical thread, I will act as GM and Manager though I will rely on my coaching staff as needed. Trading is set to hard, favor prospects, injuries off (just hate that part of the game/life), fatigue and trading set to low, and trading of draft picks allowed. The Owner will control the budget and I am vulnerable to termination if I fail to live up to the Owner's expectations. I sim out the games (an occasional time where I may watch), but will not control the in-game decision making.

OmahaBaseball · 10-31-2024, 08:44 PM

A high-level overview of the Boston Red Sox as the team prepares for the upcoming 2024 season. According to my scouts, the top players include Rafael Devers, Tanner Houck, and Jarren Duran. There are several promising players who I hope to see on the big-league club very soon, including Marcelo Mayer and Ceddanne Rafaela leading the way.

As shown, the "Team Position Rankings" don't look too promising in many areas and there is much work to be done. From the standpoint of who I will shuffle around / move, I will want to find a new home for Trevor Story. I have never been a big fan of his (sorry Trevor) and he is on the books for far too much money and years than I would like; at least 3 more years for a total of $70M with a player option that could force an additional year at $25M.

Owner John Henry may prove to be difficult, as he is "Demanding" and "Controlling" so I will have to tread carefully. With that said, the goals he assigned me for the 2024 season include "play close to .500 ball" and "increase fan interest" which, maybe I am oversimplifying this, seems doable. As for the other assigned goal of acquiring a Cy Young Award winner, that may be tricky.

OmahaBaseball · 10-31-2024, 08:57 PM

The Red Sox are set to go with a 5-man pitching rotation that is currently anchored by Tanner Houck, though I really like Garrett Whitlock and think he has the potential to have a nice season. Not sure how else to say it, but I really don't like my bullpen. Too much age and salary for what I perceive as undependable arms. Shoring up the bullpen will be a top priority for me early in the season. I have my eye on a few players but it may cost me more than I want to part with.

OmahaBaseball · 10-31-2024, 09:07 PM

While this is hardly a "Murder's Row" lineup, there is some pop in the there and, if the stars align, could be some development opportunities for a breakout season. I anticipate getting All-Star production from Rafael Devers and Jarren Duran, hope for a surprise from Triston Casas, and have my fingers crossed that Vaughn Grissom is much better than real life.

OmahaBaseball · 10-31-2024, 09:10 PM

I am not going to pretend to understand the financial screen. What I do know is that I have some money to spend if the right deal comes along, and there a few players that are making more than their production/age warrants.

OmahaBaseball · 10-31-2024, 09:19 PM

As mentioned above, I received three (3) goals from Boston Red Sox team owner John Henry. Two of the goals ("play .500 ball" and "improve your fan interest") have a target completion date of this season and seem doable. I also have the goal of acquiring a "Cy Young Award" winner this year which might prove to be a difficult challenge. The remaining goal has a target completion date of 2027 in which I need to "build up the team to reach the playoffs."

OmahaBaseball · 11-02-2024, 08:25 AM

In the first of what will likely be an active trading flurry, the Boston Red Sox moved 32-year old LF Rob Refsnyder to the Washington Nationals in return for 26-year CF Victor Robles, 25 year-old 2B Darren Baker, and 21-year old SS Juan Garcia. The Nationals retained 100% of Robles salary ($2,650,000). Refsnyder was on the trading block and didn't have a spot in the outfield. Picking up Garcia, and to some extent Baker, gives a little minor-league depth, while Robles has a shot to make the starting lineup given his defense and speed. If he doesn't pan out, I will move him and not be out salary. Assessing the trade, Boston Assistant GM Brian O'Halloran stated that "I don't have a firm opinion about this trade proposal."

Washington receives:

Code:

Rob Refsnyder (32-year old LF)
5th round pick of the New York Yankees (2012)
.248/.365/.317 with   9 2B,   1 HR,   31 R,  28 RBI for 0.5 WAR in  241 PA (MLB / 2023)
.244/.336/.342 with  45 2B,  13 HR,  127 R,  84 RBI for 1.2 WAR in 1028 PA (MLB / 8 seasons)

Boston receives:

Code:

Victor Robles (26-year old CF)
International Free Agent signed by Washington Nationals (2013)
.299/.385/.364 with  5 2B,  0 HR,  15 R,   8 RBI for 0.7 WAR in  122 PA (MLB / 2023)
.238/.312/.360 with 78 2B, 31 HR, 210 R, 154 RBI for 2.9 WAR in 1774 PA (MLB / 7 seasons)

Darren Baker (25-year old 2B)
10th round pick of the Washington Nationals (2021)
.273/.338/.340 with 10 2B, 4 3B, 3 HR,  49 R, 41 RBI for -0.9 WAR in  444 PA (AAA / 2023)
.286/.349/.361 with 39 2B, 6 3B, 6 HR, 121 R, 89 RBI for -0.2 WAR in 1021 PA (R, A, A+, AA, AAA / 3 seasons)

Juan Garcia (21-year old SS)
International Free Agent signed by Washington Nationals (2019)
.302/.412/.372 with  0 2B, 0 3B, 1 HR,  6 R,  5 RBI for 0.2 WAR in  51 PA (R / 2023)
.218/.345/.328 with 14 2B, 3 3B, 6 HR, 54 R, 35 RBI for 1.1 WAR in 412 PA (R / 3 seasons)

OmahaBaseball · 11-02-2024, 05:25 PM

In a surprising move, the Boston Red Sox announced that they traded 29-year old SP Lucas Giolito and 35-year old C Roberto Perez to the St. Louis Cardinals in return for 28-year old 2B/SS/OF Tommy Edman and 23-year old SP Cooper Hjerpe. I recognize this is a gamble on my part, as Giolito has top-of-the-rotation skills and a manageable salary. With that said, if I am going to move on from Trevor Story at the SS position, I need a sparkplug player who is versatile with positional assignments and who can put the ball in play. I believe that Edman can fill this void. The Cardinals retained 100% of Edman's salary of the next 2 years ($16.5M). Regarding the trade, Boston Assistant GM Brian O'Halloran explained that "This is not too bad. You can try asking for more but could be fair as it stands."

St. Louis receives:

Code:

Lucas Giolito (29-year old SP)
1st round pick, 16th overall, of the Washington Nationals (2012)
All-Star selection (2019) 
 8-15 W/L record with  204 K,  73 BB, and 4.88 ERA for  0.4 WAR in  184 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023)
61-62 W/L record with 1077 K, 385 BB, and 4.43 ERA for 10.8 WAR in 1013 2/3 IP (MLB / 8 seasons)

Roberto Perez (35-year old C)
33rd round pick of the Cleveland Guardians (2008)
Gold Glove Award (2019, 2020)
.133/.235/.133 with  0 2B, 0 3B,  0 HR,   0 R,   1 RBI for -0.1 WAR in   17 PA (MLB / 2023)
.207/.298/.358 with 57 2B, 4 3B, 55 HR, 165 R, 193 RBI for  5.9 WAR in 1734 PA (MLB / 10 seasons)

Boston receives:

Code:

Tommy Edman (28-year old SS)
6th round pick, 196th overall, of the St. Louis Cardinals (2016).
Gold Glove Award (2021) 
.248/.307/.399 with  25 2B,  4 3B, 13 HR,  69 R,  47 RBI for 1.8 WAR in  525 PA (MLB / 2023)
.265/.319/.408 with 121 2B, 19 3B, 53 HR, 343 R, 222 RBI for 9.8 WAR in 2419 PA (MLB / 5 seasons)

Cooper Hjerpe (23-year old SP)
1st round pick, 22nd overall, of the St. Louis Cardinals (2022)
2-4 W/L record with 54 K, 26 BB, and 4.15 ERA for -0.5 WAR in 43 1/3 IP (A+ / 2023)

OmahaBaseball · 11-02-2024, 06:26 PM

Well they say things come in 3's and that is the case with the Boston Red Sox front office as they continue to shuffle up the roster. In what is anticipated as being the last big move prior to the start of the 2024 season, the Red Sox moved 31-year old SS Trevor Story, 24-year old LF Wilyer Abreu, and 21-year old 3B Lyonell James to the Detroit Tigers in return for 28-year old SP Jack Flaherty, 24-year old RP Tyler Mattison, and 19-year old SP Paul Wilson. Detroit retained 100% of Flaherty's 2024 salary ($14M).

There are several layers to this trade. Foremost, this was about moving the salary of Story (guaranteed $70M over the next 3 years, with player option for an additional year at $25M) and opening up the spot for newly acquired Tommy Edman. The trade is also about backfilling the rotation spot that was created after Giolito was dealt. While I was able to pick up some minor league pitching prospects, in order to pull off the trade I had to part with Wilyer Abreu (#83 ranked MLB prospect; #5 ranked prospect in Boston's system). I tried to find some way to not deal Abreu but Detroit simply would not budge. Not everyone in Boston's front office was happy with this decision, as Assistant GM Brian O'Halloran made it clear that "it would be a mistake to accept this offer.[/I]"

Detroit receives:

Code:

Trevor Story (31-year old SS)
1st round pick, 45th overall, of the Colorado Rockies (2011)
All-Star (2018, 2019); NL Silver Slugger (2018, 2019) 
.203/.250/.316 with   9 2B,  0 3B,   3 HR,  12 R,  14 RBI for -0.2 WAR in  168 PA (MLB / 2023)
.265/.332/.504 with 211 2B, 27 3B, 177 HR, 528 R, 530 RBI for 27.3 WAR in 3698 PA (MLB / 8 seasons)

Wilyer Abreu (24-year old LF)
International Free Agent signed by Houston Astros (2017)
#83 ranked MLB prospect
.316/.388/.474 with  6 2B, 0 3B,  2 HR,  10 R,  14 RBI for 0.7 WAR in   85 PA (MLB / 2023)
.259/.372/.439 with 82 2B, 5 3B, 59 HR, 289 R, 233 RBI for 5.7 WAR in 1784 PA (R, A-, A, A+, AA, AAA / 6 seasons)

Lyonell James (21-year old 3B)
International Free Agent signed by Boston Red Sox (2019)
.238/.311/.311 with 12 2B, 1 3B, 3 HR, 35 R, 45 RBI for -0.8 WAR in 354 PA (A / 2023)
.269/.355/.350 with 30 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 78 R, 97 RBI for  0.7 WAR in 677 PA (R, A / 3 seasons)

Boston receives:

Code:

Jack Flaherty (28-year old SP)
1st round pick, 34th overall, of the St. Louis Cardinals (2014)
  8-9 W/L record with 148 K,  66 BB, and 4.99 ERA for  1.8 WAR in 144 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023)
42-34 W/L record with 748 K, 254 BB, and 3.75 ERA for 10.4 WAR in 667 1/3 IP (MLB / 7 seasons)

Tyler Mattison (24-year old CL)
4th round pick of the Detroit Tigers (2021)
 5-1 W/L record with  91 K, 28 BB, and 2.41 ERA for 1.5 WAR in 59 2/3 IP (A+, AA / 2023)
12-2 W/L record with 145 K, 47 BB, and 3.26 ERA for 2.4 WAR in 99 1/3 IP (R, A, A+, AA / 2 seasons)

Paul Wilson (19-year old SP)
3rd round pick, 76th overall, of the Detroit Tigers (2023)

OmahaBaseball · 11-02-2024, 06:36 PM

I just cannot help myself, I enjoy the trading game. As I was finalizing rosters in preparation for Opening Day, I was informed by 36-year old RP Chase Anderson that he would not accept a demotion to the minors. So I had to decide whether to keep him on the team by sending someone else off the roster, or call his bluff and trade him away. While I'm sure I could have figured out something to create a spot for him, I was bothered by his response so I decided he needed to go.

The problem with trading him was finding another team that was willing to take him straight up for minor-league talent. The only 1 for 1 offer I found was with the Pirates which I didn't really care for. To find something I could live with, I had to include 37-year old RP Chris Martin. Now while I was fine with moving Anderson, I wasn't very happy to part with Martin. While his age and salary worked against him, Martin's 2023 season stats, current ratings, and role as setup man placed him him a good spot for a productive 2024 season.

In return, the San Diego sent me 21-year old 1B Jay Beshears, 25-year old SP Jay Groome, and $950,000 in cash. My Assistant GM Brian O'Halloran made it clear that he was "not leaning for or against this trade proposal." One last point, after I accepted the trade I felt remorse because the only reason I pulled off the trade was because Anderson stubbornly refused to go to Triple-A. Yes, I saved salary and picked up some minor-league "talent", but I have weakened my bullpen and the players I received in return will likely never make an impact at the MLB level. I will now need to use that $950K to find bullpen help. This was a poor decision on my part, and something that I cannot let happen again.

San Diego receives:

Code:

Chase Anderson (36-year old RP)
9th round pick of the Arizona Diamondbacks (2009)
  1-6 W/L record with  64 K,  33 BB, and 5.42 ERA for -0.3 WAR in   86 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023)
59-56 W/L record with 881 K, 359 BB, and 4.35 ERA for  5.2 WAR in 1048 2/3 IP (MLB / 10 seasons)

Chris Martin (37-year old RP)
21st round pick of the Colorado Rockies (2005)
  4-1 W/L record with  46 K,  8 BB, and 1.05 ERA for 1.5 WAR in  51 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023)
13-17 W/L record with 307 K, 42 BB, and 3.37 ERA for 5.5 WAR in 302 1/3 IP (MLB / 8 seasons)

Boston receives:

Code:

Jay Beshears (21-year old 1B)
6th round pick, 191st overall, of the San Diego Padres (2023)
.229/.306/.311 with 4 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 14 R, 13 RBI for -0.3 WAR in 121 PA (R, A / 2023)

Jay Groome (25-year old SP)
1st round pick, 12th overall, of the Boston Red Sox (2016)
 4-10 W/L record with 137 K, 112 BB, and 8.55 ERA for 0.2 WAR in 134 2/3 IP (AAA / 2023)
19-34 W/L record with 499 K, 247 BB, and 5.56 ERA for 5.2 WAR in 442 1/3 IP (R, A-, A, A+, AA, AAA / 6 seasons)

OmahaBaseball · 11-04-2024, 12:37 PM

The 2024 MLB season is here and top prospects hope for the chance to show their talents at the top level. The Orioles lead the way with 4 players in the top-20. The Red Sox top prospect is ranked #28 (Ceddanne Rafaela). A snippet of the potential superstars are shown as follows:

OmahaBaseball · 11-05-2024, 10:39 AM

According to the season prediction, this will be a battle between the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros for the American League best record. On the other end of the spectrum, the Red Sox are predicated to be one of the worst teams in baseball. From the player side, Yandy Diaz is poised to have an amazing season at the plate and Cole Ragans looks like an award contender.

OmahaBaseball · 11-05-2024, 05:07 PM

It is interesting to see the National League predictions, as the Atlanta Braves are viewed as having the only 100+ win season though the Dodgers are not far behind with 99 predicted wins. At the bottom of the rung, it looks to be a fight between the Nationals and the Giants for the worst record. It will be fun to see how big of a season Ronald Acuna Jr. can put up, while the battle of aces will be between Max Fried and Tyler Glasnow.

OmahaBaseball · 11-21-2024, 08:40 PM

A snapshot of the Red Sox positional strength. While there are a few positions where the team is ranked in the top 5 (3B, LF, RP), not loving the fact that we are ranked 24th at SS and 29th at C. I also think that the game is being too generous with a #16 ranking for starting pitching.

OmahaBaseball · 12-20-2024, 09:26 PM

While the pitching staff is likely not going to win any post-season awards, I feel good about having a foundation for building towards success. I am looking forward to see how the season plays out for Tanner Houck and Jack Flaherty. I am not really sold on Brayan Bello (I think control and allowing too many runners on base will be an issue), but my scouts believe he has potential so I will stick with him for now.

OmahaBaseball · 12-20-2024, 09:36 PM

Don't get me wrong, I believe there are good players on the team and it would not surprise me if Jarren Duran ends up getting a few MVP votes once the season is wrapped up. With that said, there are some serious holes in the team that will have to be addressed at some point.

OmahaBaseball · 12-20-2024, 09:44 PM

Not too bad -- there is talent here and the Red Sox minor league organization is ranked 8th.

OmahaBaseball · 12-20-2024, 10:39 PM

As previously mentioned, I am not confident with the depth and talent of my bullpen. Because of that, I have been reviewing the free agent list, trading block, and waiver wire for relief pitching help. After some deliberation, I put a waiver claim on Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Garrett Cleavinger. I was informed today that my claim was successful and Cleavinger will now join the team.

Code:

Garrett Cleavinger (29-year old RP)
3rd round pick of the Baltimore Orioles (2015)
1-0 W/L record with 14 K,  6 BB, and 3.00 ERA for -0.1 WAR in 12 IP (MLB / 2023)
4-6 W/L record with 68 K, 25 BB, and 3.52 ERA for  0.0 WAR in 53 2/3 IP (MLB / 4 seasons)

OmahaBaseball · 12-20-2024, 11:01 PM

The opening day of the 2024 baseball season for the Boston Red Sox got off to a nice start with a quick 3-run lead, but ended as many of the last year's games had; with a loss! On the day, the hometown Seattle Mariners (1-0) treated the 42,694 fans in attendance to a 6 to 4 victory over the visiting Boston Red Sox (0-1).

Picking up the win for Seattle was Luis Castillo (1-0) who allowed 4 earned runs on 6 hits, 1 walk, and 1 wild pitch while striking out 7 in his 8-innings of work; Game Score 60. Closer Andres Munoz (SV 1) scattered 2 hits in his 1-inning of scoreless work to earn the save. Red Sox starter Tanner Houck did not factor into the decision, as he left the game after 7-innings in which he permitted 4 earned runs on 8 hits and 2 hit batsmen while striking out 5 in his 105-pitch effort; Game Score 50. Nick Pivetta (0-1) was roughed up in his 1-inning of work, as he served up 2 earned runs on 4 hits to take the loss.

The Mariners' bats were putting the ball in play today, led by Jorge Polanco (3 for 4, Homerun, Run, 3 RBIs), Josh Rojas (2 for 4, Double, Run, RBI), J.P. Crawford (2 for 4, Double, Run), and Mitch Haniger (2 for 3, Run, RBI, Hit-by-Pitch). Boston's offense was powered by Triston Casas (2 for 4, Homerun, 2 Runs, RBI), Vaughn Grissom (2 for 4, RBI), and Rafael Devers (1 for 3, Run, RBI, Walk, Stolen Base).

Player of the Game: Jorge Polanco

AL East Standings: 1 GB, tied for 3rd Place

OmahaBaseball · 12-22-2024, 12:15 PM

What a way to start the 2024 season! Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Shane McClanahan locked down the visiting Toronto Blue Jays to toss an opening day No-Hitter. On the day, McClanahan allowed 2 walks while striking out 7 in his 96-pitch outing; Game Score 92.

10-31-2024, 08:57 PM	#3
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Pitching Staff The Red Sox are set to go with a 5-man pitching rotation that is currently anchored by *Tanner Houck, though I really like Garrett Whitlock* and think he has the potential to have a nice season. Not sure how else to say it, but I really don't like my bullpen. Too much age and salary for what I perceive as undependable arms. Shoring up the bullpen will be a top priority for me early in the season. I have my eye on a few players but it may cost me more than I want to part with. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:20 PM.

10-31-2024, 09:07 PM	#4
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Batting Lineup While this is hardly a "Murder's Row" lineup, there is some pop in the there and, if the stars align, could be some development opportunities for a breakout season. I anticipate getting All-Star production from *Rafael Devers* and *Jarren Duran, hope for a surprise from Triston Casas, and have my fingers crossed that Vaughn Grissom* is much better than real life. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 03-17-2025 at 08:27 PM.

10-31-2024, 09:19 PM	#6
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Goals from Owner As mentioned above, I received three (3) goals from Boston Red Sox team owner John Henry. Two of the goals ("play .500 ball" and "improve your fan interest") have a target completion date of this season and seem doable. I also have the goal of acquiring a "Cy Young Award" winner this year which might prove to be a difficult challenge. The remaining goal has a target completion date of 2027 in which I need to "build up the team to reach the playoffs." Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:21 PM.

11-02-2024, 08:25 AM	#7
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Refsnyder On The Move to DC In the first of what will likely be an active trading flurry, the Boston Red Sox moved 32-year old LF *Rob Refsnyder* to the Washington Nationals in return for 26-year CF *Victor Robles, 25 year-old 2B Darren Baker, and 21-year old SS Juan Garcia. The Nationals* retained 100% of *Robles* salary ($2,650,000). *Refsnyder* was on the trading block and didn't have a spot in the outfield. Picking up *Garcia, and to some extent Baker, gives a little minor-league depth, while Robles* has a shot to make the starting lineup given his defense and speed. If he doesn't pan out, I will move him and not be out salary. Assessing the trade, Boston Assistant GM *Brian O'Halloran* stated that "I don't have a firm opinion about this trade proposal." Washington receives: Code: Rob Refsnyder (32-year old LF) 5th round pick of the New York Yankees (2012) .248/.365/.317 with 9 2B, 1 HR, 31 R, 28 RBI for 0.5 WAR in 241 PA (MLB / 2023) .244/.336/.342 with 45 2B, 13 HR, 127 R, 84 RBI for 1.2 WAR in 1028 PA (MLB / 8 seasons) Boston receives: Code: Victor Robles (26-year old CF) International Free Agent signed by Washington Nationals (2013) .299/.385/.364 with 5 2B, 0 HR, 15 R, 8 RBI for 0.7 WAR in 122 PA (MLB / 2023) .238/.312/.360 with 78 2B, 31 HR, 210 R, 154 RBI for 2.9 WAR in 1774 PA (MLB / 7 seasons) Darren Baker (25-year old 2B) 10th round pick of the Washington Nationals (2021) .273/.338/.340 with 10 2B, 4 3B, 3 HR, 49 R, 41 RBI for -0.9 WAR in 444 PA (AAA / 2023) .286/.349/.361 with 39 2B, 6 3B, 6 HR, 121 R, 89 RBI for -0.2 WAR in 1021 PA (R, A, A+, AA, AAA / 3 seasons) Juan Garcia (21-year old SS) International Free Agent signed by Washington Nationals (2019) .302/.412/.372 with 0 2B, 0 3B, 1 HR, 6 R, 5 RBI for 0.2 WAR in 51 PA (R / 2023) .218/.345/.328 with 14 2B, 3 3B, 6 HR, 54 R, 35 RBI for 1.1 WAR in 412 PA (R / 3 seasons) Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-11-2025 at 10:05 PM.

11-02-2024, 06:26 PM	#9
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Story Dealt to Detroit Well they say things come in 3's and that is the case with the Boston Red Sox front office as they continue to shuffle up the roster. In what is anticipated as being the last big move prior to the start of the 2024 season, the Red Sox moved 31-year old SS *Trevor Story, 24-year old LF Wilyer Abreu, and 21-year old 3B Lyonell James* to the Detroit Tigers in return for 28-year old SP *Jack Flaherty, 24-year old RP Tyler Mattison, and 19-year old SP Paul Wilson. Detroit* retained 100% of *Flaherty's* 2024 salary ($14M). There are several layers to this trade. Foremost, this was about moving the salary of *Story* (guaranteed $70M over the next 3 years, with player option for an additional year at $25M) and opening up the spot for newly acquired *Tommy Edman. The trade is also about backfilling the rotation spot that was created after Giolito* was dealt. While I was able to pick up some minor league pitching prospects, in order to pull off the trade I had to part with *Wilyer Abreu* (#83 ranked MLB prospect; #5 ranked prospect in Boston's system). I tried to find some way to not deal *Abreu* but Detroit simply would not budge. Not everyone in Boston's front office was happy with this decision, as Assistant GM *Brian O'Halloran* made it clear that "it would be a mistake to accept this offer.[/I]" Detroit receives: Code: Trevor Story (31-year old SS) 1st round pick, 45th overall, of the Colorado Rockies (2011) All-Star (2018, 2019); NL Silver Slugger (2018, 2019) .203/.250/.316 with 9 2B, 0 3B, 3 HR, 12 R, 14 RBI for -0.2 WAR in 168 PA (MLB / 2023) .265/.332/.504 with 211 2B, 27 3B, 177 HR, 528 R, 530 RBI for 27.3 WAR in 3698 PA (MLB / 8 seasons) Wilyer Abreu (24-year old LF) International Free Agent signed by Houston Astros (2017) #83 ranked MLB prospect .316/.388/.474 with 6 2B, 0 3B, 2 HR, 10 R, 14 RBI for 0.7 WAR in 85 PA (MLB / 2023) .259/.372/.439 with 82 2B, 5 3B, 59 HR, 289 R, 233 RBI for 5.7 WAR in 1784 PA (R, A-, A, A+, AA, AAA / 6 seasons) Lyonell James (21-year old 3B) International Free Agent signed by Boston Red Sox (2019) .238/.311/.311 with 12 2B, 1 3B, 3 HR, 35 R, 45 RBI for -0.8 WAR in 354 PA (A / 2023) .269/.355/.350 with 30 2B, 3 3B, 4 HR, 78 R, 97 RBI for 0.7 WAR in 677 PA (R, A / 3 seasons) Boston receives: Code: Jack Flaherty (28-year old SP) 1st round pick, 34th overall, of the St. Louis Cardinals (2014) 8-9 W/L record with 148 K, 66 BB, and 4.99 ERA for 1.8 WAR in 144 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023) 42-34 W/L record with 748 K, 254 BB, and 3.75 ERA for 10.4 WAR in 667 1/3 IP (MLB / 7 seasons) Tyler Mattison (24-year old CL) 4th round pick of the Detroit Tigers (2021) 5-1 W/L record with 91 K, 28 BB, and 2.41 ERA for 1.5 WAR in 59 2/3 IP (A+, AA / 2023) 12-2 W/L record with 145 K, 47 BB, and 3.26 ERA for 2.4 WAR in 99 1/3 IP (R, A, A+, AA / 2 seasons) Paul Wilson (19-year old SP) 3rd round pick, 76th overall, of the Detroit Tigers (2023) Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:24 PM.

10-31-2024, 03:40 PM	#1
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Hope in Beantown While I continue to enjoy my historical Boston Americans franchise thread, I've realized that I miss playing out the modern game as well. Now that I have made the switch over to OOTP 25, I am starting a Boston Red Sox franchise thread for the 2024 season using CBL's "Opening Day" rosters. Now admittedly, I am not sure how long this one will last but I wanted to give it a shot. I am looking to improve on the 2024 "real-life" Boston season, as it did not go as well as I would have hoped for. I am optimistic that I can at least do as well the team did this season and play at .500 ball, but my aim is to make a legitimate push for a wild card spot. I hope is to find the right balance of where I can stay competitive while still lowering salary and finding future talent without having to tank for a few years. Similar to my historical thread, I will act as GM and Manager though I will rely on my coaching staff as needed. Trading is set to hard, favor prospects, injuries off (just hate that part of the game/life), fatigue and trading set to low, and trading of draft picks allowed. The Owner will control the budget and I am vulnerable to termination if I fail to live up to the Owner's expectations. I sim out the games (an occasional time where I may watch), but will not control the in-game decision making. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 03-28-2025 at 10:38 AM. Reason: Moved from OOTP 23 to OOTP 25

10-31-2024, 08:44 PM	#2
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Team Snapshot A high-level overview of the Boston Red Sox as the team prepares for the upcoming 2024 season. According to my scouts, the top players include *Rafael Devers, Tanner Houck, and Jarren Duran. There are several promising players who I hope to see on the big-league club very soon, including Marcelo Mayer* and *Ceddanne Rafaela* leading the way. As shown, the "Team Position Rankings" don't look too promising in many areas and there is much work to be done. From the standpoint of who I will shuffle around / move, I will want to find a new home for Trevor Story. I have never been a big fan of his (sorry *Trevor) and he is on the books for far too much money and years than I would like; at least 3 more years for a total of $70M with a player option that could force an additional year at $25M. Owner John Henry* may prove to be difficult, as he is "Demanding" and "Controlling" so I will have to tread carefully. With that said, the goals he assigned me for the 2024 season include "play close to .500 ball" and "increase fan interest" which, maybe I am oversimplifying this, seems doable. As for the other assigned goal of acquiring a Cy Young Award winner, that may be tricky. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:19 PM.

10-31-2024, 09:10 PM	#5
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Team Finances I am not going to pretend to understand the financial screen. What I do know is that I have some money to spend if the right deal comes along, and there a few players that are making more than their production/age warrants. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-19-2025 at 09:57 PM.

11-02-2024, 05:25 PM	#8
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Giolito Has New Home In St. Louis In a surprising move, the Boston Red Sox announced that they traded 29-year old SP *Lucas Giolito* and 35-year old C *Roberto Perez* to the St. Louis Cardinals in return for 28-year old 2B/SS/OF *Tommy Edman* and 23-year old SP *Cooper Hjerpe. I recognize this is a gamble on my part, as Giolito* has top-of-the-rotation skills and a manageable salary. With that said, if I am going to move on from *Trevor Story* at the SS position, I need a sparkplug player who is versatile with positional assignments and who can put the ball in play. I believe that *Edman* can fill this void. The Cardinals retained 100% of *Edman's* salary of the next 2 years ($16.5M). Regarding the trade, Boston Assistant GM *Brian O'Halloran* explained that "This is not too bad. You can try asking for more but could be fair as it stands." St. Louis receives: Code: Lucas Giolito (29-year old SP) 1st round pick, 16th overall, of the Washington Nationals (2012) All-Star selection (2019) 8-15 W/L record with 204 K, 73 BB, and 4.88 ERA for 0.4 WAR in 184 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023) 61-62 W/L record with 1077 K, 385 BB, and 4.43 ERA for 10.8 WAR in 1013 2/3 IP (MLB / 8 seasons) Roberto Perez (35-year old C) 33rd round pick of the Cleveland Guardians (2008) Gold Glove Award (2019, 2020) .133/.235/.133 with 0 2B, 0 3B, 0 HR, 0 R, 1 RBI for -0.1 WAR in 17 PA (MLB / 2023) .207/.298/.358 with 57 2B, 4 3B, 55 HR, 165 R, 193 RBI for 5.9 WAR in 1734 PA (MLB / 10 seasons) Boston receives: Code: Tommy Edman (28-year old SS) 6th round pick, 196th overall, of the St. Louis Cardinals (2016). Gold Glove Award (2021) .248/.307/.399 with 25 2B, 4 3B, 13 HR, 69 R, 47 RBI for 1.8 WAR in 525 PA (MLB / 2023) .265/.319/.408 with 121 2B, 19 3B, 53 HR, 343 R, 222 RBI for 9.8 WAR in 2419 PA (MLB / 5 seasons) Cooper Hjerpe (23-year old SP) 1st round pick, 22nd overall, of the St. Louis Cardinals (2022) 2-4 W/L record with 54 K, 26 BB, and 4.15 ERA for -0.5 WAR in 43 1/3 IP (A+ / 2023) Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:23 PM.

11-02-2024, 06:36 PM	#10
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Boston Swings Last-Minute Trade with Padres I just cannot help myself, I enjoy the trading game. As I was finalizing rosters in preparation for Opening Day, I was informed by 36-year old RP *Chase Anderson* that he would not accept a demotion to the minors. So I had to decide whether to keep him on the team by sending someone else off the roster, or call his bluff and trade him away. While I'm sure I could have figured out something to create a spot for him, I was bothered by his response so I decided he needed to go. The problem with trading him was finding another team that was willing to take him straight up for minor-league talent. The only 1 for 1 offer I found was with the Pirates which I didn't really care for. To find something I could live with, I had to include 37-year old RP *Chris Martin. Now while I was fine with moving Anderson, I wasn't very happy to part with Martin. While his age and salary worked against him, Martin's* 2023 season stats, current ratings, and role as setup man placed him him a good spot for a productive 2024 season. In return, the San Diego sent me 21-year old 1B *Jay Beshears, 25-year old SP Jay Groome, and $950,000* in cash. My Assistant GM *Brian O'Halloran* made it clear that he was "not leaning for or against this trade proposal." One last point, after I accepted the trade I felt remorse because the only reason I pulled off the trade was because *Anderson* stubbornly refused to go to Triple-A. Yes, I saved salary and picked up some minor-league "talent", but I have weakened my bullpen and the players I received in return will likely never make an impact at the MLB level. I will now need to use that $950K to find bullpen help. This was a poor decision on my part, and something that I cannot let happen again. San Diego receives: Code: Chase Anderson (36-year old RP) 9th round pick of the Arizona Diamondbacks (2009) 1-6 W/L record with 64 K, 33 BB, and 5.42 ERA for -0.3 WAR in 86 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023) 59-56 W/L record with 881 K, 359 BB, and 4.35 ERA for 5.2 WAR in 1048 2/3 IP (MLB / 10 seasons) Chris Martin (37-year old RP) 21st round pick of the Colorado Rockies (2005) 4-1 W/L record with 46 K, 8 BB, and 1.05 ERA for 1.5 WAR in 51 1/3 IP (MLB / 2023) 13-17 W/L record with 307 K, 42 BB, and 3.37 ERA for 5.5 WAR in 302 1/3 IP (MLB / 8 seasons) Boston receives: Code: Jay Beshears (21-year old 1B) 6th round pick, 191st overall, of the San Diego Padres (2023) .229/.306/.311 with 4 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 14 R, 13 RBI for -0.3 WAR in 121 PA (R, A / 2023) Jay Groome (25-year old SP) 1st round pick, 12th overall, of the Boston Red Sox (2016) 4-10 W/L record with 137 K, 112 BB, and 8.55 ERA for 0.2 WAR in 134 2/3 IP (AAA / 2023) 19-34 W/L record with 499 K, 247 BB, and 5.56 ERA for 5.2 WAR in 442 1/3 IP (R, A-, A, A+, AA, AAA / 6 seasons) __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:30 PM.

11-04-2024, 12:37 PM	#11
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	MLB Top-20 Prospects The 2024 MLB season is here and top prospects hope for the chance to show their talents at the top level. The Orioles lead the way with 4 players in the top-20. The Red Sox top prospect is ranked #28 (Ceddanne Rafaela). A snippet of the potential superstars are shown as follows: Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:31 PM.

11-05-2024, 10:39 AM	#12
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	American League Season Prediction According to the season prediction, this will be a battle between the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros for the American League best record. On the other end of the spectrum, the Red Sox are predicated to be one of the worst teams in baseball. From the player side, *Yandy Diaz* is poised to have an amazing season at the plate and *Cole Ragans* looks like an award contender. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-18-2025 at 09:35 AM.

11-05-2024, 05:07 PM	#13
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	National League Season Prediction It is interesting to see the National League predictions, as the Atlanta Braves are viewed as having the only 100+ win season though the Dodgers are not far behind with 99 predicted wins. At the bottom of the rung, it looks to be a fight between the Nationals and the Giants for the worst record. It will be fun to see how big of a season *Ronald Acuna Jr.* can put up, while the battle of aces will be between *Max Fried* and *Tyler Glasnow. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-18-2025 at 09:41 AM.*

11-21-2024, 08:40 PM	#14
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Boston Red Sox - Team Positional Strength A snapshot of the Red Sox positional strength. While there are a few positions where the team is ranked in the top 5 (3B, LF, RP), not loving the fact that we are ranked 24th at SS and 29th at C. I also think that the game is being too generous with a #16 ranking for starting pitching. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:33 PM.

12-20-2024, 09:26 PM	#15
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Opening Day Pitching Staff While the pitching staff is likely not going to win any post-season awards, I feel good about having a foundation for building towards success. I am looking forward to see how the season plays out for *Tanner Houck* and *Jack Flaherty. I am not really sold on Brayan Bello* (I think control and allowing too many runners on base will be an issue), but my scouts believe he has potential so I will stick with him for now. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:34 PM.

12-20-2024, 09:36 PM	#16
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Opening Day Batting Lineups Don't get me wrong, I believe there are good players on the team and it would not surprise me if *Jarren Duran* ends up getting a few MVP votes once the season is wrapped up. With that said, there are some serious holes in the team that will have to be addressed at some point. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-28-2025 at 02:34 PM.

12-20-2024, 09:44 PM	#17
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Minor League Overview Not too bad -- there is talent here and the Red Sox minor league organization is ranked 8th. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-20-2025 at 09:20 AM.

12-20-2024, 10:39 PM	#18
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Boston Grabs Cleavinger From Waivers As previously mentioned, I am not confident with the depth and talent of my bullpen. Because of that, I have been reviewing the free agent list, trading block, and waiver wire for relief pitching help. After some deliberation, I put a waiver claim on Tampa Bay Rays pitcher *Garrett Cleavinger. I was informed today that my claim was successful and Cleavinger* will now join the team. Code: Garrett Cleavinger (29-year old RP) 3rd round pick of the Baltimore Orioles (2015) 1-0 W/L record with 14 K, 6 BB, and 3.00 ERA for -0.1 WAR in 12 IP (MLB / 2023) 4-6 W/L record with 68 K, 25 BB, and 3.52 ERA for 0.0 WAR in 53 2/3 IP (MLB / 4 seasons) __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 03-19-2025 at 08:40 PM.

12-20-2024, 11:01 PM	#19
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Game 1: Boston Red Sox vs. Seattle Mariners The opening day of the 2024 baseball season for the Boston Red Sox got off to a nice start with a quick 3-run lead, but ended as many of the last year's games had; with a loss! On the day, the hometown Seattle Mariners (1-0) treated the 42,694 fans in attendance to a 6 to 4 victory over the visiting Boston Red Sox (0-1). Picking up the win for Seattle was *Luis Castillo* (1-0) who allowed 4 earned runs on 6 hits, 1 walk, and 1 wild pitch while striking out 7 in his 8-innings of work; Game Score 60. Closer *Andres Munoz* (SV 1) scattered 2 hits in his 1-inning of scoreless work to earn the save. Red Sox starter *Tanner Houck* did not factor into the decision, as he left the game after 7-innings in which he permitted 4 earned runs on 8 hits and 2 hit batsmen while striking out 5 in his 105-pitch effort; Game Score 50. *Nick Pivetta* (0-1) was roughed up in his 1-inning of work, as he served up 2 earned runs on 4 hits to take the loss. The Mariners' bats were putting the ball in play today, led by *Jorge Polanco* (3 for 4, Homerun, Run, 3 RBIs), *Josh Rojas* (2 for 4, Double, Run, RBI), J.P. Crawford (2 for 4, Double, Run), and Mitch Haniger (2 for 3, Run, RBI, Hit-by-Pitch). Boston's offense was powered by *Triston Casas* (2 for 4, Homerun, 2 Runs, RBI), *Vaughn Grissom* (2 for 4, RBI), and *Rafael Devers* (1 for 3, Run, RBI, Walk, Stolen Base). Player of the Game: *Jorge Polanco* AL East Standings: 1 GB, tied for 3rd Place Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 03-28-2025 at 10:39 AM.

12-22-2024, 12:15 PM	#20
OmahaBaseball Hall Of Famer Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Home of the College World Series! Posts: 3,448	Opening Day No-Hitter! What a way to start the 2024 season! Tampa Bay Rays pitcher *Shane McClanahan* locked down the visiting Toronto Blue Jays to toss an opening day No-Hitter. On the day, *McClanahan* allowed 2 walks while striking out 7 in his 96-pitch outing; Game Score 92. Attached Images __________________ Life is Good! Last edited by OmahaBaseball; 01-20-2025 at 10:37 AM.