The Boston Red Sox were one of the favorites to land San Francisco Giants ace Blake Snell this winter. That was until late Tuesday night, when it was announced that Snell and the Los Angeles Dodgers agreed to terms on a five-year, $182 million contract that includes a bit of deferred money.

In the aftermath of this signing, the Red Sox will need to quickly find an alternative Snell. While the most obvious candidate is Atlanta Braves ace Max Fried, Fried has a load of rich suitors on his tail.

Beyond Fried, Cody Williams of FanSided has urged the Red Sox to look into Cleveland Guardians ace Shane Bieber, who’s coming off Tommy John surgery.

“Of course, the reason he’s been set aside in a different category is Bieber underwent Tommy John surgery early in the 2024 season, making only two starts. So as he makes his way back, it’s exceedingly likely he’s not ready for Opening Day and may not pitch until the end of the spring,” Williams wrote.

“At the same time, if you’re the Red Sox looking for a long-term investment, that should still be highly enticing. It may sacrifice some immediate value but so much about his offseason is spurred on because of the future within the organization.”

Bieber would make a lot of sense, but if his price tag is as hefty as some expect, the Red Sox may struggle to add him alongside other top talent. Spotrac projects Bieber to sign a six-year, $147 million deal this winter.

The right-hander would be a solid upgrade for Boston, but as Boston looks to compete with the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Baltimore Orioles, it’s hard to imagine the Red Sox taking this kind of shot on an injured arm.