Masataka Yoshida is unquestionably a productive major league hitter, having posted a career OPS+ of 109. But with $36.5 million still owed to him over the next two years and no place on the Red Sox except as a low-power DH/pinch-hitter, he arguably hurts the roster more than he helps it.
The Red Sox cannot option Yoshida to the minor leagues without his consent. As for a trade, we have recently seen reports that “there has been tangible trade interest in Yoshida throughout the winter, with teams recognizing his offensive upside,” but the Red Sox obviously have not pulled the trigger. That potentially leaves designating him for assignment as the only option for getting him off the roster. But he is unlikely to be claimed on waivers given his contract, and such a move would potentially be disastrous for the team’s future efforts to sign overseas stars.
What do yo think the Sox should do with Yoshida? Is it time to view him as a sunk cost and move on, or is there still a place for him on this team?