Red Sox Give Outfielder Extension After Another Strong Start To Season

Boston is giving out a rare mid-season deal this summer

The Boston Red Sox locked up one of their most reliable depth pieces for the next two seasons, a player who has thrived in Boston after failing to stick on at five other stops in his major league career. 

The Red Sox have signed outfielder Rob Refsnyder to a one-year, $1.85 million contract extension that includes a $2 million club option for 2025," MassLive's Chris Cotillo wrote Saturday. "The deal also includes potential bonuses and escalators."

Before signing with the Red Sox prior to the 2022 season, Refsnyder hit .224 with a .310 on-base percentage, .618 OPS and 70 OPS+ in 232 games across five franchises -- The New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Tampa Bay Rays, Texas Rangers and Minnesota Twins.

Since then, Refsynder has hit .299 with a .393 on-base percentage, .850 OPS and 133 OPS+ in 90 games for Boston. The 32-year-old has totally re-invented himself since Red Sox chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom took a chance on him, and it has paid off in spades for both sides.

The Red Sox use Refsynder as a platoon outfielder against left-handed pitching as well as a reliable fourth outfielder when needed. He's not only hit well but played excellent outfield defense and been a reliable baserunner.

Refsnyder is a perfect example of a role player. He excels in certain matchups and can be called upon in big spots when needed. Now he'll have at least one more season in his current role with a chance to earn the aforementioned club option for 2025. 

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