MLB Rumors: Pete Alonso asking price, Red Sox necessary evil, Braves target?
By Mark Powell
MLB Rumors: Red Sox end Christian Arroyo disaster
At 28 years old, Christian Arroyo’s had plenty of time to make an impression on Boston Red Sox fans, and it hasn’t gone according to plan. Arroyo is batting .241 with a .638 OPS. On Friday, Boston placed Arroyo on waivers. All 29 other teams will have a chance to claim Arroyo, but should they fail to, he’ll have the opportunity to accept a minor-league assignment or opt out of his deal to become a free agent.
Arroyo has received playing time at shortstop primarily because of the injury to Trevor Story. With Story nearing a return, along with Boston’s trade for Luis Urias, the Sox don’t have much need for another struggling middle infielder. MLB Trade Rumors outlined Arroyo’s fall from grace:
"“From 2020-22, the former top prospect turned in a combined .273/.320/.427 batting line (102 wRC+), walking at a well below-average 4.7% clip but also putting the ball in play at a better-than-average rate (19.4% strikeout rate). His production has taken a major nosedive in 2023, however, as he’s produced just a .241/.268/.369 slash with a career-low 3.4% walk rate. This year’s 21.8% strikeout rate is also a notable step back from last year’s career-low 16.8% mark.”"
It’s unclear if Arroyo will receive much interest outside of Boston, though it could be wise for a rebuilding team to take a chance on him, hoping to repair his swing in the process.