Ex-Red Sox Fan Favorite Wanted To End Career In Boston But Was Not Offered Contract
The Boston Red Sox have had substantial turnover since their historically talented 2018 World Series Championship roster.
Just five years later, Chris Sale and Rafael Devers are the only players remaining from what could have been a dynasty.
One impact player -- who gets plenty of praise for his off-field antics but deserves more credibility for his on-field production never wanted to leave but was essentially forced out of the door.
"I've been trying to get back to Boston and the Red Sox organization since I left," Brock Holt told WEEI's Rob Bradford on the "Baseball Isn't Boring" podcast. "I never wanted to leave after the 2019 season. I wanted to re-sign there, I wanted to end my career there."
Holt had his best two offensive seasons in 2018 and 2019 before entering free agency and eventually signing with the Milwaukee Brewers.
The veteran utility man hit .297 with 19 extra-base hits including three home runs, 31 RBIs and a .771 OPS (101 OPS+) in 87 games during his last season in Boston. He had a .774 OPS in the prior season, good for a 109 OPS+ in 109 games.
Despite his success, Chaim Bloom did not want him back months after accepting the job as chief baseball officer.
Over his seven-year stint with the Red Sox, Holt hit .270 with 144 extra-base hits including 23 home runs, 203 RBIs and a .715 OPS (92 OPS+) in 615 games. He also played every position outside of catcher during his Red Sox tenure.
Holt continues to be involved in the community, particularly with the Jimmy Fund and has expressed interest in joining the front office or coaching staff someday as well.
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