News and Rumors from Day 1 of the Winter Meetings:
Baz’ power stuff seemed to return last year, his first full year after returning from Tommy John surgery, but he faded in the second half. His has some major stuff however, and the Astros are known for maximizing pitching talent. Coming off a down year, Baz could be a terrific buy low candidate.
The Sox seem to be pricing every available option, from first baseman Pete Alonso and infielder Bo Bichette in free agency to Marte and Houston Astros corner infielder Isaac Paredes in trades.
Paredes, who is under club control for two more seasons with a projected $9.3 million salary in 2026, is yet another hitter in whom the Red Sox have expressed interest, according to sources briefed on their discussions. He presumably would play first base for the Sox if Bregman returned at third, and the price for him likely would be steep. The Astros, seeking controllable starting pitchers, are interested in one of the Red Sox’s two young lefties, Payton Tolle or Connelly Early.