Red Sox Offseason Needs: One Bat Won’t Be Enough

The latest insights from veteran sports columnist Sean McAdam paint a pretty honest picture: the Boston Red Sox have a lot to figure out if they want to really contend next season.

Sure, re-signing Alex Bregman could help stabilize the lineup a bit. But McAdam warns that one big bat isn’t going to fix everything.

The Sox need upgrades at several positions. Trades could start a ripple effect that leaves other holes, so the front office has to juggle a lot at once.

McAdam doesn’t just stick to baseball, either. He shares thoughts on the Patriots’ surprising bounce-back, the Bruins’ defensive grit, Jaylen Brown’s leadership for the Celtics, coaching philosophies in the NFL, and even a few moments from the wider sports world.

Let’s break down his main takeaways—and maybe wonder what’s next.

Boston Red Sox: More Than Just One Bat Away

McAdam doesn’t sugarcoat Boston’s offensive struggles. Even if Alex Bregman sticks around, the Red Sox would likely just repeat last year’s so-so production.

That wasn’t enough, especially when it mattered most in October. The main problem? This team just doesn’t have steady power throughout the lineup.

They can’t pin their hopes on Bregman alone if they want to seriously boost their offense. McAdam points out trouble spots like first base and the designated hitter slot.

He even suggests the team might look at second or third base, depending on where prospect Marcelo Mayer ends up.

Potential Trade Scenarios Could Complicate Needs

McAdam floats a scenario where the Sox trade an outfielder like Jarren Duran or Wilyer Abreu to land a top starting pitcher. That’d help the rotation, sure, but it would also thin out their lineup.

So, if they trade for pitching, they’ll need even more bats. The list of needs just keeps growing.

• First base needs a serious upgrade
• Designated hitter isn’t pulling its weight
• Second or third base could be in play, depending on Mayer
• Trading a hitter for pitching just adds to the offensive gaps

Patriots: From Rock Bottom to Contenders

Switching over to football, McAdam gives credit to the New England Patriots for their wild turnaround. After a brutal 4–13 season, they’re suddenly back in the mix for a possible 13-win year.

It’s a testament to the organization’s resilience and how quickly things can shift when adjustments work.

Leadership and Culture Make a Difference

It’s not just about stats. McAdam points to the importance of leadership culture, something the Patriots seem to be getting back.

He sees a similar spark in Celtics star Jaylen Brown, who’s not afraid to call out teammates when effort slips. That kind of accountability matters—maybe more than people realize.

Bruins and Their Defensive Revival

On the ice, McAdam singles out Nikita Zadorov for completely flipping the script on his Bruins tenure. After a rough first year, Zadorov’s turned into a physical, steady presence on the blue line.

It’s a reminder that perseverance and real adjustment can bring a player—and a team—back to relevance.

Mike Vrabel’s Coaching Touch

McAdam admires Mike Vrabel’s coaching style in the NFL. Vrabel builds genuine relationships with players, and McAdam thinks that’s what creates lasting success.

He doesn’t shy away from calling out the hypocrisy in college football, either. Some coaches slam players for chasing money, but then chase giant paydays themselves. It’s a bit much, honestly.

Offbeat Observations and Cultural Notes

McAdam wraps up with some lighter thoughts. He marvels at former Red Sox star Fred Lynn’s energy at 73, and tips his cap to Roger Federer’s well-deserved Hall of Fame induction.

For something different, he even recommends the Netflix thriller The Beast in Me. Not a bad mix—sports nostalgia, a little tennis, and a movie pick for the weekend.

Bringing It All Together

McAdam’s wide-ranging commentary really shows his decades in sports journalism. He covers everything from how MLB teams build rosters to leadership styles in the NFL and NBA.

He points out that winning usually takes more than just adding talent. You need a strong culture and players willing to change, too.

Boston fans, especially, face a pivotal offseason. The moves the Red Sox make soon could shape whether they chase October or keep repeating old mistakes.

If McAdam’s instincts are on target, the front office’s appetite for bold action might tip the scales.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Some Things I Think I Think: One bat not enough for Red Sox’ offseason shopping list