The Boston Red Sox may be inching closer to landing a key piece for their infield-and it’s a name that’s been on their radar for a while. According to recent reports, momentum is building around a potential trade that would bring All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes to Boston, with talks reportedly intensifying as spring training approaches.
The Houston Astros are at the center of this trade buzz, and it sounds like they’re seriously considering moving an infielder before camp opens. Paredes, along with first baseman Christian Walker, has emerged as one of the most talked-about trade candidates on Houston’s roster. But here’s the thing-Paredes isn’t just younger, he’s also more affordable, which makes him the more attractive asset in the eyes of front offices around the league.
The Red Sox and the Pittsburgh Pirates are believed to be among the most aggressive suitors, though as many as five teams could be in the mix. Still, Boston seems to be in a strong position.
They have the flexibility to part with a major league piece to get a deal done-something not every team can say at this stage of the offseason. That said, they’re reportedly not looking to move outfielder Wilyer Abreu, who’s seen as a valuable part of their future.
The connection between Boston and Paredes isn’t new. It’s only grown stronger since Alex Bregman signed with the Chicago Cubs-Paredes’ former team-creating a ripple effect that’s left the Red Sox still searching for a reliable third baseman.
They passed on making an offer to Eugenio Suárez, one of the more prominent free agents at the position, which suggests they’ve had their sights set elsewhere. Now, with the market thinning out, Paredes stands out as one of the best remaining options.
Boston’s front office is reportedly focused on acquiring a “legit bat,” and Paredes certainly fits that bill. He quietly turned in a strong season in 2025, launching 20 home runs and posting an .809 OPS across 102 games.
That kind of production at the hot corner is hard to come by-especially when it’s paired with elite plate discipline. Since 2022, Paredes owns the second-highest walk rate (11.2%) among qualified third basemen, while keeping his strikeout rate at a manageable 17.3%.
That’s a rare combination of power and patience, and it makes him a perfect fit for a Red Sox lineup that could use more consistency from the right side.
Unless the Arizona Diamondbacks suddenly decide to make Ketel Marte available-a move that seems unlikely-Paredes may be the best bat on the trade market right now. Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner is another name being floated, but Paredes brings more pop and positional clarity at third base, which is exactly where Boston needs help.
The clock is ticking as spring training looms, and if Houston is truly ready to deal, the Red Sox might be one aggressive phone call away from locking in their infield anchor for 2025.