Red Sox May Replace Struggling Catcher if JT Realmuto Signs

The Boston Red Sox seem to have their eyes on a possible upgrade behind the plate. Reports are linking them to veteran catcher J.T. Realmuto.

Catcher isn’t exactly the team’s biggest offseason need, but management wants more offense and steadier defense from the position. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Jen McCaffrey say the Sox could pair Realmuto with projected starter Carlos Narváez to form a stronger catching tandem for 2025.

Why Realmuto Could Be the Missing Piece

At 35, J.T. Realmuto still ranks among baseball’s most respected and reliable catchers. He brings a rare mix of offensive punch and defensive skill that Boston could use right now.

If the Sox add him, he’d likely split duties with Narváez rather than push him aside. That means more depth and leadership at a spot that gave them headaches last year.

Proven Bat and Reliable Durability

Realmuto’s numbers from last season? Solid as ever: a .257 batting average, 12 home runs, 57 runs, 52 RBIs, a .700 OPS, and a 2.1 fWAR. He’s also been a workhorse—playing more than 125 games in nine of his twelve big-league seasons.

That kind of durability is rare for a catcher. It’s especially valuable given how punishing the position can be.

Elite Defensive Skills Behind the Plate

Realmuto really stands out on defense. His 99th percentile pop time of 1.86 seconds is among the fastest in the game, and pitchers love that quick release.

He can shut down the running game and shift momentum in close matchups. For a young pitching staff, having that kind of defensive stability is huge.

Boston’s backup catcher, Connor Wong, had a tough year—batting just .190 with a .500 OPS and a -0.7 fWAR in 63 games.

Connor Wong’s Future in Question

Wong re-signed for one year at $1.375 million. He still has a minor league option left and team control, so the Sox could move him or send him down if Realmuto arrives.

This gives the front office some flexibility. Wong’s bat just hasn’t been steady enough for a team that needs more from its catchers.

Leadership and Mentorship Potential

Realmuto’s value goes beyond stats. Boston’s pitching staff is shaping up to be one of the more interesting young groups in the AL, with names like Garrett Crochet, Sonny Gray, and Brayan Bello.

Having a veteran like Realmuto could help with pitch calling, game tempo, and mentoring guys who are still learning the ropes.

Strategic Benefits of a Veteran Catcher

Bringing in a veteran catcher has some clear perks:

• Better game management for a developing rotation.
• Extra offense at a spot that usually leans defense-first.
• More options for lineup matchups by sharing time with Narváez.
• Defensive upgrades that can erase extra bases and runs.
• A steadying voice in a clubhouse that’s balancing youth and experience.

Boston’s Calculated Offseason Approach

The Sox aren’t making catcher their top offseason focus, but exploring Realmuto shows they’re looking for smart, targeted upgrades. Sometimes, small moves at key spots can ripple through the whole roster.

Realmuto offers defense, offense, and leadership—qualities Boston could really use right now.

Outlook for the 2025 Season

If the Red Sox manage to land Realmuto, they instantly gain stability behind the plate. That kind of upgrade can really tilt the balance in close games.

It also shows the team’s commitment to giving its young pitchers the support they need to develop. Realmuto’s presence would send a message—Boston’s not messing around when it comes to building a serious contender.

For fans, the idea of adding J.T. Realmuto brings a real sense of intrigue. There’s some genuine optimism in the air now, and honestly, who can blame them?

In a league where tiny advantages can decide playoff spots, making moves like this might be exactly what Boston needs to shake things up in the AL East.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Red Sox could move on from maligned backstop if free-agent rumor comes to fruition