Three free agent starting pitchers the Red Sox could sign to help lift some workload off Garrett Crochet

Boston Red Sox superstar ace Garrett Crochet has been the gem of the pitching staff, and this season, he’s been getting a ton of help from Brayan Bello and Lucas Giolito, who have been having breakout/comeback seasons respectively. However, those two are now waning, and the Sox’ playoff chances are on the line. 

The Sox need one more true No. 2 starter to make their rotation practically unbeatable. Luckily, the 2026 free agent class is loaded. Here are three free agents that could make Boston unstoppable: 

Merrill Kelly, Texas Rangers RHP 

Kelly was one of the pitchers the Sox almost landed at the deadline, but couldn’t do it due to the asking price. Now that he’s going to be a free agent, it could be a lot easier to get him.

Kelly has a record of 12-7 with a 3.21 ERA, 162 Ks, and 1.064 WHIP in 176 innings pitched. If he came to the Sox and worked with Andrew Bailey, he could see a superstar season just like Lucas Giolito.

MORE: Red Sox’ Garrett Crochet chases chance to become Boston’s third pitcher to complete prestigious achievement

Michael King, San Diego Padres RHP

King is a more unlikely idea, as he has to decline his mutual option, and because of his injuries throughout the season. However, he’s done so well in his healthy starts, he might just become a free agent. 

King has posted a 2.87 ERA in 12 starts, and has 67 Ks along with a WHIP of 1.070 in 62 innings pitched. If the Sox could land him, he definitely would fit right in with Crochet as a surefire 1-2 punch.

MORE: Red Sox manager Alex Cora narrows down Gold Glove outfielder's return to next two series

Brandon Woodruff, Milwaukee Brewers RHP

Woodruff is like King, as he also has a mutual option, and spent the last year out with injury. Since he’s been back though, he’s been his former All-Star self. 

Posting a 3.32 ERA, a WHIP of 0.960, and 74 Ks in 59 innings pitched, he could be the man for the Sox to be Crochet’s Robin in his first fully healthy season.

Hopefully the Sox land one of these guys, as all of them are great options. If they don’t, they better get themselves that No. 2, as they desperately need it.

MORE BOSTON RED SOX NEWS

Red Sox manager Alex Cora gives ominous report on Boston's chances to make it to October

Should the Red Sox make a blockbuster trade for two-time All-Star pitcher if they can't land Joe Ryan?

Red Sox' intended backup catcher to Connor Wong listed as team's hidden gem this season