The Boston Red Sox have experienced their fair share of highs and lows throughout a rollercoaster-like opening to the 2025 MLB season. Alex Cora’s club has had issues maintaining momentum early in the campaign, however, the Red Sox’s outlook is more positive than it’s ever been after picking up a third straight victory with Friday’s 10-3 win over the Chicago White Sox.
The Red Sox have several veteran players to thank for stepping up at various times this season. That includes outfielder Wilyer Abreu, who’s off to a tremendous start after finishing the 2024 campaign sixth in the American League Rookie of the Year race while also picking up Gold Glove honors.
With his only being 25 years old, Red Sox fans are hoping that Abreu can become one of the franchise’s cornerstones. As nice as that would be, it turns out Boston management might not see him in the same light that the fanbase does.
Red Sox Haven’t Offered Extension to Wilyer Abreu, Opening Door to Trade
The early part of the 2025 season has seen the Red Sox lock down a pair of important young pieces. Left-handed ace Garrett Crochet signed a six-year, $170 million extension shortly after his Boston debut, while second base phenom Kristian Campbell inked an eight-year, $60 million deal shortly after that.
As great as it is to see young names locked down, the Red Sox haven’t made a similar effort to secure Abreu.
“No, not yet,” Abreu told ESPN‘s Enrique Rojas when asked if the Red Sox offered him an extension. “We’re calm. I’m not desperate for a contract or anything like that. When the time comes, it will come.”
https://t.co/NjPk2wiEI1
— Enrique Rojas/ESPN (@Enrique_Rojas1) April 18, 2025
Although Abreu’s patience is admirable, the Red Sox’s lack of urgency regarding a potential re-signing could say a lot about the Venezuelan OF’s outlook.
After all, top Boston prospect Roman Anthony is nearing his MLB debut with each passing day, and his eventual call-up could make Abreu expendable before the trade deadline. Considering how the 25-year-old left-handed bat was involved in trade rumors throughout the latest offseason, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Red Sox are willing to entertain offers.
If he is moved, chances are Abreu could draw a decent return. He’s slashing .306/.427/.532 with three home runs, 12 RBIs, and 13 walks in his first 20 games (62 at-bats) this season. His 0.5 defensive wins above replacement during that stretch are tied for the fourth-best total in the Majors.
That’s without mentioning how Abreu being under team control through the 2029 season could entice clubs looking for long-term outfield solutions.
Unless something happens to Anthony’s development, expect Abreu’s name to be involved in trade rumors until the deadline or a contract extension is signed. For now, he’ll do whatever it takes to help the Red Sox find success this season.
Speaking of which, Alex Cora’s club is currently tied for the eighth-best 2025 World Series odds (+2000) on DraftKings Sportsbook as the season continues.
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