The Boston Red Sox have made yet another offseason splash, picking up catcher Blake Sabol from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for international bonus pool money.
Sure, the Sox needed to shore up their catching depth, and Sabol’s flexibility behind the plate and in the outfield certainly doesn’t hurt. Let’s be honest; this move feels like a domino in a much bigger international chess match.
Roki Sasaki Sweepstakes: A Fierce International Competition

Here’s where things get interesting: the Giants seem to be reloading their war chest for one reason—Roki Sasaki. The Japanese phenom, often touted as the crown jewel of this year’s international free agent class, is turning heads across MLB.
Ever since Sasaki was officially posted, the scramble has begun. His signing window just opened and runs through January 23, and every contender in the league is making moves to strengthen their bid.
But there’s a twist. According to Andrew Baggarly from The Athletic, the Giants have already been told that Sasaki is slipping through their fingers.
If that’s true, the Giant’s recent moves to bolster their international funds have become more about a long-term strategy versus an immediate payoff. That said, they’re not the only team in the hunt.
The Los Angeles Dodgers, ever the heavyweight in free agency, are rumored to be pulling similar stunts—offloading assets for bonus pool cash, hoping to lure Sasaki to Los Angeles.
The Red Sox Focus on Proven MLB Arms

Meanwhile, the Red Sox are remaining on the sidelines when it comes to Sasaki. The Red Sox are laser-focused on fortifying their rotation with names like Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler.
It raises a couple of questions. Is Boston betting that Sasaki isn’t the missing piece for their 2025 plans, or are they just not in the mood to play the high-stakes international poker game?
In any case, Sabol lands in Boston as a key piece in their catching depth. But make no mistake—while the Sox got what they needed, this move is another chapter in a winter filled with bold plays and international intrigue. All eyes remain on Sasaki, and the clock is ticking. Go Sox!