Red Sox Rumors: 3 Players Not Expected Back Next Season

A truly horrendous season for the Boston Red Sox means that big changes are set to come this offseason. Boston has several pending UFAs and given how much they underachieved this campaign, it seems likely that many of them will not be back. Yet, let's look at three specific players who are not expected to return to Beantown.

Xander Bogaerts: It's impossible not to ignore the elephant in the room - there's a good chance that the Red Sox will lose Xander Bogaerts this offseason. The star shortstop has the opportunity to opt-out of his contract and earn himself a massive payday on the open market. Given Boston's poor year, this could be the avenue he elects to choose. If he does leave, boy, Boston will only be in more trouble.

Nathan Eovaldi: Often lost in the fear of losing Bogaerts, Nathan Eovaldi could also decide to leave the Red Sox through free agency this offseason, too. Although the 32-year-old starter expressed the desire to sign an extension with Boston during the season, nothing came to fruition. Now, free agency is right around the corner, and it seems unlikely that the Houston native won't at least consider the possibility of signing elsewhere.

J.D. Martinez: Man, another notable player, but the Red Sox could very well lose J.D. Martinez this offseason, too. Martinez lived up nicely to his five-year deal with Boston, appearing in four All-Star Games and of course winning a World Series. Although his power numbers were a bit lower this campaign, there will be a market for his services.