(BOSTON) — Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow is moving aggressively to overhaul the roster, targeting a massive injection of championship experience by pursuing three recent World Series champions from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Breslow is reportedly considering a staggering financial outlay in the free-agent market to bring the trio to Boston for the 2026 season.
However, of the three players linked to the Red Sox, only one has turned them down, and the other two… are now in active talks that could redefine the Boston clubhouse.
The Player Who Said NO: Enrique “Kiké” Hernández
The first player the Red Sox targeted was familiar face, utility star Enrique “Kiké” Hernández. Hernández, who spent time in Boston in 2021-2023, was heavily rumored to be a top priority for Breslow to fill the team’s utility role and inject energy into the clubhouse.
- The Rejection: Hernández, a free agent after undergoing elbow surgery, reportedly declined all interest from Boston, signaling his intent to either remain with the Dodgers or explore the market with warmer-weather teams as he recovers. This marked the first speed bump in the ambitious plan.
The Two Who Are Considering: Relievers Alex Vesia and Evan Phillips
Breslow immediately pivoted, focusing the massive buyout on two high-leverage Dodgers relievers: left-hander Alex Vesia and right-hander Evan Phillips. Both players are facing their final arbitration-eligible seasons and are now in a precarious spot due to their projected high salaries and the Dodgers’ deep bullpen talent.
- Alex Vesia: The left-handed specialist is projected to earn over $4 million in arbitration. The Red Sox, who desperately need reliable high-leverage southpaws, are reportedly prepared to meet or exceed that figure to acquire his services. Vesia’s power and recent emotional journey (missing the 2025 World Series for personal tragedy) have made him a target for a team looking for both talent and a strong clubhouse presence. Vesia is actively discussing a contract with Boston.
- Evan Phillips: The star right-handed closer is the biggest prize. Phillips, projected to earn over $6 million in arbitration, is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season. This is the massive buyout Breslow is weighing. By signing Phillips to a long-term, team-friendly deal that covers his recovery year, the Red Sox would secure a top-five closer for 2027 and beyond, effectively stealing an elite arm from the Dodgers for cheap.
This move is a bold gamble by Breslow—investing heavily in the Dodgers’ bullpen veterans could be the ultimate “buy-low” strategy to bring championship-caliber talent to Fenway
