Boston adds frontline starter with five-year contract
The Boston Red Sox have agreed to a five-year, $130 million contract with left-hander Ranger Suárez, bolstering their rotation with one of baseball’s most accomplished free-agent starters. The deal marks a significant offseason move for the Red Sox as they look to improve after finishing with 89 wins last season.
A proven performer from Philadelphia
Suárez, 30, arrives after six seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, where he has established himself as one of the most reliable and durable left-handers in baseball. Since transitioning to a full-time starter in 2021, he has maintained a 3.25 ERA while becoming known for his exceptional command and ability to keep batters off balance.
In 2025, the three-time All-Star delivered a career-best season for the Phillies, posting a 3.20 ERA with 151 strikeouts across 157⅓ innings. That performance earned him a 4.0 WAR, reflecting his impact as a consistent performer in the middle of a rotation.
Building a stronger rotation
Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has worked to fortify the team’s pitching staff with the Suárez signing. The left-hander will join Garrett Crochet and newly acquired Sonny Gray in a rotation designed to compete for an American League East title.
Over his career with the Phillies, Suárez compiled a 53-37 record with a 3.38 ERA and 705 strikeouts. His pitch arsenal features six offerings, with his changeup and curveball ranking among the most effective in baseball, holding opponents to a combined .197 batting average against those pitches last season.
Compensatory pick for Philadelphia
Suárez declined the Phillies’ $22.025 million qualifying offer before the November 18 deadline, making him a free agent. As compensation, the Phillies will receive a draft pick after the fourth round in the 2026 MLB Draft.
