The Red Sox are clearly in the mix this offseason, and the name generating the most buzz lately? Ketel Marte.
For two straight weeks, Boston has been linked to the Diamondbacks’ All-Star second baseman, but despite all the chatter, the Winter Meetings came and went without a deal. So where do things actually stand?
According to recent updates, Boston is still in contact with Arizona about Marte, but nothing is imminent. One source described the conversations as “exploratory,” which tells us this is still in the feeling-out phase.
The Diamondbacks, understandably, are looking for starting pitching in return - a premium ask in any trade. But there’s also word that Arizona might have its eye on top Red Sox prospect Marcelo Mayer.
That’s where things get tricky.
Mayer is a cornerstone-type talent, and Boston is understandably reluctant to move him. Still, there’s a belief within the organization that a Marte trade could get done without including Mayer. That’s going to depend heavily on what other teams are offering, because if a bidding war breaks out, Boston may have to make some tough calls.
Beyond Marte, the Red Sox are keeping their options wide open. They’re casting a broad net - both in terms of positions and how they acquire talent, whether through trades or free agency.
One name they’re still connected to is Alex Bregman. The veteran third baseman remains a target, and Boston is reportedly still in the mix there.
The Red Sox are also talking to Houston about Isaac Paredes, a player whose versatility and pop could fit nicely into their infield plans. And they’re not stopping there.
The Cardinals’ Brendan Donovan has drawn interest from multiple teams, Boston included, though St. Louis might not be ready to move on from him just yet.
An intriguing new name has surfaced, too: Willson Contreras. The three-time All-Star spent most of last season at first base rather than behind the plate, and he’s reportedly available.
Contreras still has two years and $41 million left on his contract, plus a club option for 2028, and he holds a full no-trade clause. But there’s belief he might waive it for the right situation - and Boston could be that fit.
The Red Sox are also keeping tabs on several other notable names. Bo Bichette is on their radar, though he’d come with a high price tag.
Jorge Polanco is another versatile infielder who could slot into multiple roles. Japanese slugger Kazuma Okamoto is a potential fit as well, offering pop at the corners.
And then there’s Eugenio Suárez, who blasted 49 home runs in 2025. Despite that power, Boston has yet to make a serious push for him.
So what’s next? It’s hard to say.
The Red Sox have a history of waiting things out - remember, they didn’t land Bregman until just before spring training last year. So this could stretch well into the offseason.
But make no mistake: Boston is active, aggressive, and clearly looking to upgrade its offense. Whether it’s Marte, Bregman, Contreras, or someone else, the front office is working the phones.
As for Marte, he’s coming off another stellar season - a .283 average, 28 homers, 72 RBIs, and an .893 OPS. That’s impact production from a premium position.
If the Red Sox can find a way to land him without giving up Mayer, that’s a win. But with multiple teams circling, it’s going to take more than just interest to get a deal done.