Interesting thought experiment. I think you could throw Enrique Hernández in there as well. ZiPS DC currently projects him to come in second in fWAR for the Sox.
My answer: Garrett Whitlock, with the caveat that guys like Chris Sale and Trevor Story should hold this throne, if healthy. Think Justin Turner has a chance. Same with Yoshida.
In another timeline, the Red Sox’s 2023 rotation would be led by three perennial Cy Young contenders. In our reality, the staff will hope to capitalize on the latent talent of healthy former aces while cultivating the next generation of frontline hurlers. https://t.co/8yXGPhl96p
Competing in the American League East was difficult enough without the Baltimore Orioles being good. If the O’s build on their surprising 2022 campaign, the Red Sox are in deep trouble. https://t.co/rhRgYdo2HI
The #RedSox have a great center fielder, but he’s a shortstop now. They also have a potential future star in the minors, but he’s not ready just yet. So Adam Duvall will hold things down for the time being. https://t.co/qGi8Htip9k