Boston Red Sox make bold move by signing Patrick Sandoval

In the United States, the Boston Red Sox have finalized a two-year contract with left-handed pitcher Patrick Sandoval worth $18.2 million. This announcement came on December 20, 2024, as the team looks to bolster its pitching rotation for the upcoming seasons. Patrick Sandoval, who previously played for the Los Angeles Angels, underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2024, which will prevent him from returning to the mound until the latter part of the 2025 MLB season. Despite his recent surgery, the Red Sox see potential value in Sandoval's abilities as he has shown flashes of effectiveness during his career. The 28-year-old pitcher has a mixed track record, with his best performance coming in 2022, where he achieved a 2.91 ERA over 27 starts for the Angels. However, in 2023, he faced challenges, ending the season with a 7-13 record and a 4.11 ERA. His lack of consistency has raised questions among analysts about his ability to secure a steady place in the rotation upon his return. Nonetheless, the Red Sox's investment signals their belief in Sandoval's potential to develop into a valuable contributor once he recovers from surgery. Sandoval's signing adds depth to a Red Sox lineup that is in the process of building its pitching staff. The organization previously added another pitcher, Garret Crochet, through trade this offseason. The Red Sox are actively seeking to reinforce their rotation, which indicates a commitment to improving their competitiveness in the coming season. Overall, while Sandoval may not have an immediate impact due to his recovery timeline, the organization is preparing for his eventual return as they strategize for the future. Notably, Patrick Sandoval is not to be confused with Pablo Sandoval, a former Red Sox player who faced challenges during his tenure with the team. This distinction highlights the Red Sox's cautious optimism regarding their new signing, as they are aware of the risks associated with pitchers returning from significant injuries. The front office's decision to sign Sandoval reflects their strategy of balancing immediate needs with long-term potential, as they navigate the complexities of building a successful roster for the next several years.