That trio includes both Japanese ace Roki Sasaki, who can't ink a deal until the new international amateur free-agent signing window opens on Jan. 15, and fellow right-hander Jack Flaherty, whose recent volatility warrants some skepticism.

Alex Bregman is in unsuitable situation while the Spring Training is around the corner. His free agency is complicating things.

Boston's seeming resistance to the free-agent infielder doesn't make a lot of sense for a team that could desperately use him.

Alex Bregman is a two-time All-Star and two-time champion, a defensive ace who's posted an OPS+ at least 15 percent above league average in eight of nine MLB seasons. Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora still covets Bregman for more than his on-field production.

Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow is in the middle of his second offseason in charge of the Boston Red Sox. He’s been more aggressive with this crop of available players, highlighted by the acquisition of two starting pitchers.