Time is ticking for the Red Sox as they race to finalize arbitration deals before Thursday’s deadline—and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With just four players left to negotiate with, including a recent trade addition, Boston is under pressure to avoid letting an independent panel decide their 2026 salaries. But here’s where it gets interesting: the team has already locked in a deal with right-handed starter Kutter Crawford, signing him to a one-year, $2.75 million contract—the same salary he earned in 2025, despite missing the entire season due to injury. And this is the part most people miss: while players typically get raises in arbitration, Crawford’s situation is a rare exception, as players who sit out a full season often maintain their previous rate. Is this a fair outcome, or should injured players still see an increase? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Crawford, who turns 30 in April, is expected to be ready for Opening Day after undergoing wrist surgery last July to repair an off-field injury. His 2024 season was a standout, leading the Red Sox in innings pitched (183 ⅔) and starts (33) with a 4.36 ERA. Now, with three more seasons under team control, the Red Sox are banking on his return to form. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Crawford’s deal seems straightforward, the remaining four arbitration-eligible players—Triston Casas, Romy Gonzalez, Tanner Houck, and newcomer Johan Oviedo—still need agreements. MLBTradeRumors projects their salaries to range from $1.7 million to $3.95 million, but will the Red Sox meet those expectations? Or will they risk arbitration hearings, something they haven’t done since 2020 with Eduardo Rodriguez?
Earlier this winter, Boston secured deals with Connor Wong ($1.375 million) and Jarren Duran ($7.7 million), while non-tendering Nathaniel Lowe and Josh Winckowski and trading Brennan Bernardino. With the clock ticking, the Red Sox are aiming to wrap up negotiations smoothly, but the pressure is on. Do you think they’ll meet the deadline, or will we see another arbitration showdown? Share your thoughts below.
For context, the Red Sox started the offseason with nine arbitration-eligible players and added a 10th via trade. Regardless of the outcome, all players will remain under team control, but the financial implications are significant. As the Red Sox navigate these final deals, fans are left wondering: Will this offseason be remembered as a success, or will it leave room for second-guessing? Stay tuned as the drama unfolds before Thursday’s deadline.
