Red Sox considering Carlos Beltran

The Red Sox are seeking a power bat this offseason and are considering Carlos Beltran, according to Today’s Knuckleball’s Jon Heyman.

Now without David Ortiz, Boston will be pressed to replace the slugger’s production. Edwin Encarnacion has also been linked to the Red Sox, though Beltran might not be as costly and wouldn’t require the organization to part with a draft pick.

Beltran had an effective 2016 campaign with both the Yankees and Rangers, batting .295/.337/.513 with 29 home runs and 93 RBIs. He could prove to be the most valuable option for the Red Sox, who could turn to Beltran to give Mookie Betts or Andrew Benintendi days off.

Though Beltran’s walk rate dropped more than two points, he is a career .281 hitter who at age 40 seems prepared to play again next season.

Beltran will likely accept a one or two-year deal, according to Heyman, which could make him a more valuable piece for the Red Sox to consider. Yoenis Cespedes, Mark Trumbo and Jose Bautista could be other options for Boston.