The Boston Red Sox are turning heads this offseason with their bold pursuit of the superstar free agent outfielder Juan Soto. Franchise Legend David Ortiz has expressed strong support for the effort, calling it a move that could regain the trust of a rabid fanbase hungry for success since the 2018 World Series title.
Ortiz on Soto: “Whatever it takes”
Im Fenway Rundown podcast, Ortiz shared his excitement about the team’s attempt to sign Soto:
“The one thing that makes me so optimistic is the way the Red Sox are trying to acquire him. That motivated me to even go to him and do whatever it took to make him a Red Sox.”
Although Ortiz was unable to attend the Red Sox’s meeting with Soto due to personal matters, he has made it his mission to woo the star in the Dominican Republic, where both players reside.
A superstar step towards healing old wounds
The Red Sox’ pursuit of Soto comes at a time when the organization is still facing headwinds due to the trade of Mookie Betts faced in 2020. Adding a generational talent like Soto would not only invigorate a disillusioned fan base, but also send a clear message of intent to their AL East rivals, particularly the New York Yankees, who are also reportedly interested in Soto.
Signing Soto would reignite one of baseball’s greatest rivalries as Boston would claim a victory in the high-profile free agent bidding war.
Is Soto the right choice?
From a roster construction perspective, the addition of Soto raises questions. The Red Sox already have a heavily left-handed lineup, and their upcoming top talent is also left-handed. However, Soto’s rare combination of power, patience and production transcends lineup concerns, as his presence would immediately boost the team’s offensive capabilities.
Red Sox fans are waiting for a bold move
For years, Boston has frustrated its fan base by failing to leverage its financial resources and market size. A successful push for Soto would signal a much-needed shift in approach and convert skeptics into believers. As Ortiz leads the unofficial recruitment, Red Sox Nation can only hope the team’s efforts pay off and secure one of the sport’s brightest stars.
