The Red Sox aren’t sitting quietly this offseason - and after the Cubs landed Alex Bregman, Boston seems to be shifting gears in a big way. Just hours after inking lefty Ranger Suárez, new trade buzz started swirling, and this one could make real noise in the American League: Ketel Marte to Boston.
Yes, the same Ketel Marte who was a cornerstone of Arizona’s NL pennant run. And while Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen previously downplayed the idea of moving his All-Star second baseman, the rumor mill isn’t cooling off. On Wednesday, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale stirred the pot during an appearance on Foul Territory, pointing out that Boston’s surplus of young pitching could open the door for a deal.
Let’s break down why this potential move isn’t just smoke - it could make a lot of sense for both sides.
Why a Marte-to-Boston Deal Adds Up
According to MassLive’s Sean McAdam, Arizona has had its eye on Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran for quite some time. That’s not surprising - Duran’s speed, athleticism, and breakout potential make him an intriguing piece for a team like the D-backs, who are looking to stay competitive in a loaded National League.
But Duran might not be the only name in play. Arizona is also reportedly interested in two of Boston’s promising young arms: Payton Tolle and Connelly Early. Both are left-handers with upside, and with the Diamondbacks needing to bolster their rotation depth, the fit is there.
From Boston’s side, the math adds up. They’ve got a logjam of young pitchers and outfielders.
Arizona needs both. And the Red Sox?
They’ve got a glaring hole at second base - a position Marte would fill immediately.
Marte Brings More Than Just a Glove
Let’s not undersell what Marte brings to the table. Sure, his defense would help stabilize Boston’s infield, but his bat is the real draw here.
In 2025, Marte played 126 games and put together one of the most quietly dominant seasons in baseball. He slashed .283/.376/.517 with 28 home runs and a 145 OPS+. That’s elite production from a middle infielder - the kind of offensive punch that could transform the top half of Boston’s lineup.
Pair that with the addition of Bregman, and suddenly the Red Sox infield looks like a veteran-laden group with serious pop. Both Marte and Bregman will be 32 by Opening Day, bringing experience and leadership to a team that’s been searching for consistency since the departure of its last championship core.
Still Just Rumors - But Boston Is Clearly Active
To be clear, nothing’s done yet. These are still just rumors. But they’re not coming out of nowhere, and there’s enough smoke here to believe something could be brewing.
Even if Marte doesn’t end up in Boston, the Red Sox are clearly in the market for infield help. Other names reportedly on their radar include Isaac Paredes of the Astros and former Mariner Eugenio Suárez. Either way, it’s evident that Boston isn’t content to sit on its hands this winter.
With the AL East shaping up to be as competitive as ever, the Red Sox know they need to make moves - and if Marte is one of them, it could be a game-changer. Keep an eye on this one. The hot stove isn’t cooling down anytime soon in Boston.