Red Sox Add Former 3rd-Rounder to Triple-A Outfield Depth

The Boston Red Sox quietly added some organizational depth this week. They signed outfielder Matt Fraizer to a minor-league contract, which should include a non-roster invite to big league spring training.

It’s not a move that’ll turn many heads outside New England. But it’s the kind of thing this front office does—trying to beef up the Triple-A roster and maybe, just maybe, find a hidden gem.

Red Sox Add Outfield Depth With Matt Fraizer Signing

The Red Sox brought Fraizer aboard after MiLB Central’s Chase Ford reported the deal. Fraizer confirmed it himself on Instagram.

The 27-year-old outfielder will turn 28 in mid-January. He joins Boston after spending his whole pro career in the Pittsburgh Pirates system.

This signing gives the WooSox some much-needed outfield depth, especially after losing a few key guys this winter. Boston’s at it again—taking a shot on a former prospect who’s shown flashes but hasn’t gotten a big league shot.

A Former Third-Round Pick Still Chasing His MLB Debut

The Pirates picked Fraizer in the third round of the 2019 MLB Draft out of Arizona. He’s got athleticism, a lefty bat, and worked his way up the minors, but never quite made it to Pittsburgh.

He got his first taste of Triple-A in 2024. After the season, Fraizer hit free agency in November, hoping for a new chance. Now he’s with Boston, trying to stand out in a pretty crowded outfield group.

Strong Triple-A Production Despite Injury Setbacks

Fraizer’s 2024 stint at Triple-A Indianapolis showed why Boston took a look. In 202 plate appearances, he hit .305 with three homers, 18 doubles, 20 RBIs, 14 steals, and an .813 OPS.

He put up those numbers even though injuries slowed him down at times. When he’s healthy, you can see why some folks considered him an intriguing prospect for Pittsburgh.

Defensive Versatility a Key Selling Point

Fraizer’s defensive flexibility stands out too. In 2024, he played all three outfield spots—mostly right, but he handled center and left when needed.

That kind of versatility helps the Triple-A roster and gives the Red Sox a backup plan if injuries or roster shuffles hit the big league club.

A Familiar Name Among Minor League Standouts

Fraizer’s been recognized before. He took home the Pirates’ minor league player of the year award in 2021 after putting up a .939 OPS across High-A and Double-A.

Injuries and organizational depth kept him from breaking through, but at his best, he was on the radar for a big league shot.

Competition Awaits in Worcester

The WooSox needed help after losing outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia in a trade and watching Trayce Thompson leave in free agency. The outfield’s not as deep as it was.

Fraizer will be in the mix for playing time with other Triple-A outfielders like:

Part of a Larger Group of Spring Training Invitees

Fraizer looks set to join a growing list of non-roster invitees at Red Sox spring training. The group already features pitchers Alec Gamboa, Osvaldo Berrios, and Hobie Harris.

Catcher Jason Delay and infielder Vinny Capra are also in the mix. It’s a crowded field, honestly, and competition will be stiff.

Fraizer heads into camp with a bit of experience and some recent Triple-A success under his belt. He’s versatile, too, which never hurts.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Red Sox sign former 3rd-round pick to minor league deal, adding OF depth at AAA