Red Sox fans have watched Mookie Betts win a world championship after getting traded to the Dodgers.
They have also watched David Price and Andrew Benintendi get dealt. It seems certain Jackie Bradley Jr. will leave via free agency. Now Red Sox fans may have to brace for another star leaving town.
Shortstop Xander Bogaerts, in the prime of his career at age 28, has an opt-out clause in his contract that would allow him to leave after the 2022 season. Things can change, of course, but at this moment it wouldn't be surprising if Bogaerts, the face of the franchise, bolts after two more years with the Red Sox.
Who could blame him? The Red Sox are predicted to finish with an under .500 record this season after last year's dumpster fire. His potential teammates this season include Franchy Cordero, Jeisson Rosario, Marcus Wilson, Jonathan Arauz, Christian Arroyo and Hudson Potts.
Who? Bogaerts has to be questioning the direction of the franchise. The Red Sox should be building around Bogaerts. This is a guy who hit 23 home runs with 103 RBI in 2018 and 33 homers with 117 RBI in 2019. Those are his last two full seasons.
If the Red Sox continue to pinch pennies, don't be shocked if Bogaerts is wearing another uniform in 2023.
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