The Boston Red Sox’s World Series pursuit ended with Thursday’s loss to the New York Yankees, but the organization can shift its focus to preserving a bright future.

MLB Network’s “MLB Tonight” discussed the state of the Red Sox after their postseason elimination in the Wild Card Series. Former New York Mets general manager Steve Phillips believes the squad can take a step forward in 2026 and beyond.

“I’d buy stock in the Boston Red Sox,” Phillips said. “I love the young position players and the young pitchers.”

Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell have received plenty of attention as possible lineup cornerstones after they each debuted in 2025. Phillips was also impressed by late-season arrivals from pitchers Payton Tolle and Connelly Early, who could join Garrett Crochet and Brayan Bello in next year’s starting rotation.

Phillips is interested in seeing if the Red Sox make a significant offseason splash to complement their young players and address their biggest needs. He suggested a free agent who could leave his former franchise.

“They got a lot going in the right direction,” Phillips said. “They need to fortify first base, figure out what they’re gonna do there. Is (Triston) Casas the answer there? Can he stay healthy?

“Do they go out and get a Pete Alonso? You start dreaming a bit about additions to this team. Improve the defense — they have to do that — but they’ve got a solid core and a young team to build around for the future.”