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3w ago

Red Sox Lock Up Rookie Roman Anthony With $130M Extension

Featuring up to $230 million in performance escalators, the deal signals a broader shift toward early long-term commitments to unproven young talent.

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - AUGUST 01: Roman Anthony #19 of the Boston Red Sox hits a walk-off single against the Houston Astros during the tenth inning at Fenway Park on August 01, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - AUGUST 06: Masataka Yoshida #7 of the Boston Red Sox hits a ground out to center during the seventh inning of a game against the Kansas City Royals at Fenway Park on August 06, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.
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FORT MYERS, FLORIDA - March 12: Roman Anthony #48 of the Boston Red Sox reacts with Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox as they warm up before a Grapefruit League game against the Minnesota Twins at JetBlue Park at Fenway South on March 12, 2025 in Fort Myers, Florida. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Boston Red Sox/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Boston finalized the pact shortly after trading franchise slugger Rafael Devers to underscore its pivot toward a youth-driven rebuild.
  • The eight-year, $130 million contract includes performance escalators tied to Rookie of the Year, MVP honors, and All-Star selections that could boost its value to $230 million.
  • The move continues Boston’s recent strategy under chief baseball officer Craig Breslow of buying out arbitration years for young prospects such as Kristian Campbell, Brayan Bello and Ceddanne Rafaela.
  • Former GM Jim Bowden and other analysts warn that extending a player with just 46 games of MLB experience carries significant financial risk for both sides.
  • With Anthony secured, the Red Sox now face key roster and payroll decisions, including whether to extend veterans like Alex Bregman or trade outfielders such as Jarren Duran.