Winter trade acquisition tagged as potential breakout candidate for the Red Sox

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Winter trade acquisition tagged as potential breakout candidate for the Red Sox originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Boston Red Sox had a clear goal of bolstering their starting rotation over the winter. They were aggressive in their pursuit of arms and have put themselves in a good position coming into the new season. 

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They went out and signed Ranger Suarez to a five-year deal, acquired Sonny Gray in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, and acquired Johan Oviedo in a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates

So, a team that finished in the top-5 in team ERA last season has added multiple new weapons. You also cannot forget Garrett Crochet, who operates as the team's ace. 

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Winter trade candidate tagged as potential breakout candidate for the Red Sox

Outside of the team's strong starting rotation, others are waiting to make an impact. Both Connelly Early and Payton Tolle have had excellent springs. 

They could force the front office's hand as one of the No. 5 starters. However, many believe Oviedo should have enough to edge out the two. 

The hard-throwing righty could be in store for a big season. ESPN's Kiley McDaniel tags him as a potential breakout candidate for the Red Sox. 

"Oviedo was acquired from the Pirates in the offseason Jhostynxon Garcia trade and is slated to start the season in the Boston rotation. With top prospects Payton Tolle and Connelly Early in Triple-A waiting for a spot, Oviedo will need to perform. He has a very good chance to be a reliable No. 3/4 starter, which is a notch or two better than most are expecting."

One reason that McDaniel is high on Oviedo is that he will need to perform well. He has two high-quality arms that are looking to take his spot and be a starting pitcher that the big league club can depend on. 

Don't be surprised if Oviedo looks locked in from the start.

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