After their signing of free agent infielder Alex Bregman, there’s no doubt that the Red Sox have had one of the most productive offseasons in MLB. Not only did they address their primary concern — starting pitching — by trading for ace Garrett Crochet and signing Walker Buehler and Patrick Sandoval to shore up depth, but they also brought in a big-name right-handed bat to round out the lineup.

Not only did they make key additions to the team, but they’re also expecting the return of several contributors, like shortstop Trevor Story, first baseman Triston Casas and pitcher Lucas Giolito. And although PECOTA might not believe in this team, it sounds like Hall of Fame pitcher Pedro Martinez does.

In an episode of the Fenway Rundown podcast, Martinez called this Red Sox team “intriguing,” saying, “I think we got enough talent to actually surprise anybody in the league and in the World Series. We just have to have everything go our way.”

Pedro Martinez sets high expectations for 2025 Red Sox after Alex Bregman signing

Martinez also praised the team’s experience, noting that both Bregman and Rafael Devers have won a World Series in their careers. He also expressed confidence in the revamped pitching staff, saying, “I love what I’ve seen from them so far, especially late in the bullpen. I like the diversity that we have there, the talent that we have, and guys that came in with a lot more experience.”

Martinez’s comments reflect a broader sense among Red Sox fans that the narrative of the last few years will change in 2025. With the Yankees failing to resign Juan Soto, the Orioles losing Corbin Burnes and the Blue Jays and Rays coming off of mediocre seasons, the AL East feels more “gettable” this year. It’s still a tough division and every team has a chance to win it, but it doesn’t feel like there’s a slam dunk favorite — especially since the Red Sox signed Bregman.

While Martinez’s hopes of a World Series might seem far-fetched, they feel more realistic than PECOTA’s projection of 79.5 wins — a number they exceeded last year with a less talented roster.