**Dodgers Triumph in World Series, Red Sox Eye Busy Offseason**

The Los Angeles Dodgers emerged victorious against the New York Yankees, clinching the 2024 World Series title. With the championship now decided, the Boston Red Sox and the rest of Major League Baseball are turning their attention to the free agency period, which commenced immediately following the World Series.

The Red Sox received an early boost as pitcher Lucas Giolito opted into his player option for the 2025 season. This decision provides some stability to Boston's pitching rotation for the upcoming season. Simultaneously, the departure of eight players to unrestricted free agency presents the Red Sox with both challenges and opportunities. The team has a five-day exclusive negotiation window before players are permitted to sign deals with other teams starting Monday.

One of the notable free agents is García, acquired before the trade deadline to bolster the bullpen. Despite intentions for him to provide depth, García struggled, posting an 8.22 ERA with 13 strikeouts over 15 1/3 innings. Another mid-season acquisition, Jansen, aimed to strengthen the lineup against left-handed pitchers but only managed a .623 OPS in his 30 games.

Kenley Jansen, a four-time All-Star closer, is also on the free agency list. Despite his leadership in the clubhouse, the 37-year-old faced multiple injuries during the season, concluding with a 3.29 ERA and 62 strikeouts in 54 2/3 innings. Another veteran, the 38-year-old reliever, though plagued with injuries, performed impressively over his two years in Boston with a 2.16 ERA in 95 2/3 innings and intends to pitch one more season before retirement.

Among the Red Sox’s reliable hitters, O'Neill made a significant impact with 31 home runs and 61 RBIs, achieving an .847 OPS. The 29-year-old has expressed a willingness to return, having had preliminary discussions with the team ahead of free agency. However, another left-hander, who was sidelined by a calf injury, has announced plans to retire at the age of 35.

Nick Pivetta, a right-hander turning 32 in February, has been a steady presence in Boston’s rotation since 2020. He experienced a mix of performances in 2024, ending with a 4.14 ERA and 172 strikeouts over 145 2/3 innings. Lastly, Sims, a reliever acquired as a rental, recorded a 6.43 ERA over 14 innings.

In addition to these free agents, the status of Rob Refsnyder, who holds a $2.1 million club option, remains undecided until Monday. Additionally, players on the 60-day injured list will be activated to the 40-man roster by that same day. Teams and players have until November 19 to either accept or decline qualifying offers and ensure their rosters are set ahead of the Rule 5 draft.