The Boston Red Sox may soon be compelled to make a strategic move to address a growing gap in their pitching rotation following the potential season-long absence of Lucas Giolito due to an elbow injury. With Opening Day fast approaching, both fans and analysts are pushing for the front office to strengthen the roster.
While there are still a few veteran pitchers available on the open market—such as Blake Snell, Jordan Montgomery, and Zack Greinke—MLB insider Robert Murray from FanSided believes that free agent Michael Lorenzen stands out as the most realistic acquisition for Boston.
"Lorenzen seems like the most logical option for the Red Sox," Murray said, adding that even prior to Giolito's setback, he appeared to be a sensible fit. Now, with Giolito sidelined, the need has become almost critical.
Red Sox in Urgent Need of Rotation Help
Boston’s current rotation, already considered thin, now looks even more vulnerable. The expected starters—Brayan Bello, Nick Pivetta, Kutter Crawford, and Tanner Houck—each posted ERAs over 4.00 last season. Moreover, the team has lost two of its top three leaders in quality starts from 2023: James Paxton, who signed with the Dodgers, and Chris Sale, now with the Braves.
Although the Red Sox have reportedly remained in touch with Jordan Montgomery—according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today—his projected cost north of $100 million makes a deal unlikely. In contrast, Lorenzen may offer a more budget-conscious solution.
Lorenzen’s Price Tag Makes Him a Sensible Match
According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Lorenzen could command a deal in the range of $20 million, likely on a two-year contract with a bump in average annual value compared to last season. Murray also pointed out that while Lorenzen is eyeing a two-year arrangement, he’s not expected to reach the same pay level as someone like Sean Manaea, who landed a $28 million contract with the Mets this offseason.
"If the Red Sox do add another starter, it’ll probably be from the mid-tier market or below," Murray predicted. This makes Lorenzen a particularly attractive candidate given Boston’s cautious approach to spending this offseason.
Over his nine-year major league career, Lorenzen has posted a 4.11 ERA and accumulated 602 strikeouts in 69 starts. In 2023, he began the season with the Detroit Tigers and earned an All-Star nod before being traded to the Phillies. While he famously threw a no-hitter in his Philadelphia debut, he struggled in subsequent outings, finishing his stint with a 5.51 ERA over seven starts.
For 2024, projections estimate Lorenzen will finish with a 4.34 ERA and 113 strikeouts across 137 innings—numbers that place him as a middle-of-the-rotation option for Boston.
With the Red Sox appearing hesitant to make major financial commitments and reportedly seeking affordable reinforcements, a short-term deal with Lorenzen could align well with the team’s current direction. As Patrick McAvoy of FanNation’s Inside the Red Sox wrote, Boston has payroll flexibility but seems unwilling to make big-ticket investments. Lorenzen may represent a cost-effective answer to a pressing need.
