Title: Pivetta Set to Decline Red Sox Qualifying Offer Amid Strong Free Agency Market
In a surprising move, the Boston Red Sox extended a qualifying offer to right-hander Nick Pivetta last week, a decision many believed would lead to his return for the 2025 season. However, new reports now indicate that the market for Pivetta is robust enough for him to consider lucrative opportunities elsewhere.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan has reported that Pivetta is likely to decline the qualifying offer ahead of the impending deadline. With potential contenders such as the Cubs, Orioles, and Braves interested, Pivetta is poised to secure a significant three-year contract in free agency. Recent projections suggest he could land a deal worth around $63 million, aligning with the $21.05 million value of the qualifying offer for a single season.
Pivetta, who had a 4.14 ERA in 145 ⅔ innings in 2024, showcases an appealing upside that teams are willing to invest in, despite his career ERA of 4.76 over eight years. The interest from franchises like Houston and Tampa Bay underlines this belief in his potential as a frontline starter.
It is important to note that any team that signs Pivetta will need to forfeit a draft pick due to the qualifying offer, which raises the stakes in an already competitive market. Should Pivetta sign elsewhere, the Red Sox would reclaim a draft pick, which would be advantageous as they seek to strengthen their rotation.
As this situation unfolds, Pivetta’s decision could reshape the landscape of starting pitching in the upcoming offseason, with the Red Sox closely monitoring potential top-tier arms available in both free agency and trades.
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