Three of the Boston Red Sox’s players have had their projected arbitration salaries released by MLB Trade Rumors; Kutter Crawford, Jarren Duran, and Tanner Houck. Here’s what they're projected to make, and if they’re worth it.
Kutter Crawford current salary: $760K | Post-Arbitration: $3.5 million
Crawford is a good low rotation pitcher, but he definitely got smacked around late this season. He led the league with the most home runs given up, and can’t really eat innings. However, he still got 175 strikeouts. The Sox should give him one more year, and if he can’t improve, let him go.
Verdict: Keep ‘em, for now
Jarren Duran current salary: $760K | Post-Arbitration: $4.9 million
Duran had a breakout season this year, and was arguably the best player on the team. He finished the season slashing .285/.342/.492/.834, with 21 homers. He led the league in plate appearance, at-bats, doubles, and triples. He also had 34 stolen bases, leading his own team.
Should the Sox pay him? Yes, yes, yes! He could be a core part of the offense with Rafael Devers and Triston Casas, and the team should be built around those three. He is also a leader within the team, and him and Trevor Story take some of that burden off Devers.
Verdict: Keep ‘em
Tanner Houck current salary: $770K | Post-Arbitration: $4.5 million
Houck has honestly been the ace for this team, and he’s done an ok job at it. He posted a 3.12 ERA with 154 strikeouts, and started in 30 games. He is an inning-eater, and was a monster at the beginning of the year.
He definitely could be the two or three in the rotation, and he would be worth the money. He wouldn’t try to overperform, and would be able to stay healthy longer.
Verdict: Keep ‘em
MORE SOX NEWS:
Should the Red Sox try to acquire White Sox ace?
Red Sox fans propose mock trade for Cardinals star pitcher
Red Sox manager promises fans the front office will take care of them
Should the Sox target this young Japanese ace in the offseason?
Red Sox veteran calls for front office to add players in the offseason
