Tyler O’Neill has been one of the most productive hitters in the American League. Despite his struggles to stay healthy this season, hitting 31 home runs with a 138 OPS+. His performance is well-timed, as he’s set to become a free agent at the end of the season. Could Fenway be his home again next year? The Red Sox face an outfield logjam with Roman Anthony poised to join Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela, Wilyer Abreu, and Masataka Yoshida. Still, O’Neill enjoys playing in Boston and would welcome a return (Peter Abraham, *Boston Globe*).
Before signing a major free-agent deal, O’Neill is also a candidate for the American League Comeback Player of the Year award (Jim Bowden, *The Athletic*).
Chris Martin, another pending free agent, could return to the Red Sox on a one-year deal if he doesn’t retire, as he’s hinted at the possibility (Christopher Smith, *MassLive*). Regardless of Martin’s decision, Craig Breslow will have a busy offseason rebuilding the bullpen, though Justin Slaten seems set for a key late-inning role (Alex Speier, *Boston Globe*).
Rebuilding the bullpen could become more difficult if free agent Kenley Jansen leaves. While many believe he’s unhappy in Boston, his decision to pitch through injury for a non-contending team suggests otherwise (Greg Dudek, *NESN*).
Meanwhile, players like Tanner Houck and Trevor Story are aiming to end the season on a high note. Story’s return has been particularly exciting for Triston Casas, though according to him, the highlight has been seeing Story in the shower (Rob Bradford, *WEEI*).
Read more…https://www.overthemonster.com/2024/9/19/24248869/red-sox-news-links-pending-free-agent-tyler-oneill-would-like-to-return-to-boston