Rob Refsnyder bid farewell to the Red Sox and the city of Boston on Monday shortly after it was announced he signed a one-year deal with the Seattle Mariners.
“Thank you to the incredible fans of Boston. It was such a joy to wear that uniform and compete for both you and the city,” he said via his agency.
“Watching my kids grow up and play at Fenway, both before and after work, will be some of my fondest memories,” he posted to Instagram. “We met so many hardworking, amazing people who made this city such a special place for my family over the past four years. “A big thank you to the coaching staff, medical team, clubhouse staff, and everyone in the organization who has helped me along the way. And lastly, thank you to my Sox teammates for putting up with me. I’ve learned so much from all of you.”
Refsnyder’s deal will pay him $6.25 million in 2026. It also includes $250,000 in incentives.
The 34-year-old journeyman signed with the Red Sox as a minor league free agent in December 2021. Refsnyder made his mark against left-handed pitchers and became a veteran leader in the clubhouse during his four seasons in Boston. During that time, he hit .276 with 27 home runs, 119 RBI, 48 doubles and had an .804 OPS in 309 games.
Refsnyder’s offense against left-handed pitching was something he was known for. In 2025, he hit. 302 and had a .560 slugging percentage against southpaws.
While Refsnyder expressed interest in returning to Boston, it would have been difficult to get him at-bats. The Red Sox already have a crowded outfield with Jarren Duran, Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela and Roman Anthony. Plus manager Alex Cora praised Nate Eaton’s athleticism, and could take over Refsnyder’s role in 2026 after he had a .673 OPS against lefties in 49 plate appearacnes last season.