Red Sox playing long game again by signing another former ace
It wasn't the big ticket free agent pitcher signing Red Sox fans were holding their collective breath for, but it might ultimately be looked back as one of the most intriguing moves of this offseason.
Per a major league source - and as was first reported by Jeff Passan - the Red Sox have agreed to terms on a two-year, $18.25 million contract with former Angels ace Patrick Sandoval.
Sandoval's 2024 season came to an end when on June 24 the Angels announced the 28 year old lefty would be undergoing season-ending surgery on his UCL ligament. Ultimately, Los Angeles decided to not tender Sandoval a contract, leading to his free agency.
The southpaw is slated to make $5.5 million in 2025, a season he most likely wouldn't be able to participate in until midway through the regular season schedule. Sandoval will then make $12.75 million in 2026.
It is a familiar approach for the Red Sox, who previously signed pitchers James Paxton, Liam Hendriks and Michael Fulmer to multi-year deals knowing that the first season would be limited at best due to recovery from Tommy John surgery.
Sandoval emerged as top-of-the-rotation starter in 2022 with the Angels, posting a 2.91 ERA in 27 starts. The following season he made 28 starts, totaling a 4.11 ERA before being named Opening Day starter in 2024.
Prior to shutting down his 2024 campaign, Sandoval struggled through 16 starts, finishing with a 5.08 ERA.
