After trading for left-handed ace Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox, the Boston Red Sox are still actively seeking additional starting pitching. The team reportedly pursued Max Fried and Blake Snell before both signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees, respectively. The Red Sox have also been linked to free-agent starter Corbin Burnes, though their interest has varied. Now, they may be eyeing another free-agent pitcher from Baltimore—John Means.
Chris Cotillo of MassLive reported that the Red Sox have had discussions with Means, who is currently a free agent. While Means isn’t on the same level as Fried or Burnes, the Red Sox seem to be looking to strengthen the middle of their rotation, with Crochet likely taking the top spot. However, Means comes with significant concerns. The 31-year-old hasn’t pitched a full season since 2021, when he posted a solid 3.26 ERA in 26 starts with a 134-to-26 strikeout-to-walk ratio. After just two starts in 2022, Means underwent Tommy John surgery and missed the rest of the season. He managed only 23 2/3 innings in 2023 and, needing a bounce-back year in 2024, he underwent another Tommy John surgery in May.
While the Red Sox need starting pitching and are reportedly reluctant to pay for Corbin Burnes, Means’ injury history raises red flags. The team is wary of paying for another pitcher who might spend most of the season recovering, as seen with Chris Sale, Lucas Giolito, and Liam Hendriks. Although the acquisition would carry significant risk, the Red Sox’s need for pitching remains pressing, and time is running out as the free-agent market continues to narrow.
