{
  "id": 13483013,
  "title": "Red Sox's top offseason need highlights a big power-hitting problem",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/10/red-soxs-top-offseason-need-highlights-a-big-power-hitting-problem",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-10T17:48:47.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/red-soxs-top-offseason-highlights-174847665.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Boston Red Sox's biggest offseason need is a significant power-hitting problem, according to Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller. The team's 2026 season was marked by a mid-season surge and a strong playoff run, but they were ultimately swept by the New York Yankees. This success was based on how the Red Sox began the year; however, as they were eliminated, it is time to consider what the team needs to add for the offseason.\n\nThe biggest roster hole identified by Miller is the lack of home runs. In 2026, the Red Sox hit 163 home runs, which placed them 26th in MLB, only 26 more than the worst mark from the Toronto Blue Jays (152). The Red Sox's offense failed to sustain a deep playoff run, as home runs became increasingly valuable in October. Despite boasting a .398 slugging percentage, which was better than the league average (20th in MLB), the team still needs more power-hitting.\n\nKey players such as Willson Contreras, Adley Rutschman, and Wilyer Abreu will be crucial in addressing this problem, along with a fully healthy Roman Anthony stepping in for Jarren Duran. However, the Red Sox are left with Trevor Story, who is not a strong power-hitter at this stage of his career. Potential upgrades like Curtis Mead and Franklin Arias could be a positive addition, but the team would greatly benefit from a slugger capable of hitting 30 home runs in a season. Whether through trade or free-agent signings, the Red Sox should explore options to enhance their power-hitting potential, as it was a significant issue during the 2026 season and could lead to a substantial improvement in their offensive production next season.",
  "summary": "The Red Sox front office should be on the lookout for more power for this lineup.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}