You could make the argument that the Redsox would be worst off with JD Martinez, the could simply hold on the cash, get behind the luxury tax, than get Machado next year with Pedroia close to the end. Move Bogaerts to 2nd, and have an infinitely better team. I would pick the Redsox over the Yankees for the ALEast this year even if they do nothing. Hanley is coming off the books as well,
Redsox don't have to do anything, the rest of the American league is sinking really fast. Rays and Orioles maybe 90 loss teams, at the worst they are guaranteed a wild card game with Chris Sale pitching.