Could CJ Abrams Be a Fit in Boston? Why the Red Sox Could Kick the Tires on a Nationals Star
The Boston Red Sox are already stirring up plenty of intrigue when it comes to what their infield could look like in 2026. But things might get even more interesting if they decide to enter the conversation for one of the National League’s most electric young shortstops: CJ Abrams.
Abrams, just 25 years old, is coming off a breakout All-Star season with the Washington Nationals that turned heads across the league. And now, his name is surfacing in trade chatter - with Boston listed as one of nine potential landing spots that could make sense.
Let’s break down why this is a name worth watching for Red Sox fans.
Abrams’ Star Is Rising - Fast
In 2024, Abrams took a major leap forward. He hit .257 with 19 home runs, 60 RBIs, and swiped 31 bags across 144 games.
That speed-power combo is rare, and it helped him post a .748 OPS - solid production for a shortstop, especially when you factor in his improved defense and baserunning. All told, he finished the year with a 3.1 fWAR, a clear sign that he’s evolving into a well-rounded contributor.
Since debuting in 2022 with the Padres and arriving in Washington as part of the blockbuster Juan Soto deal, Abrams has shown steady growth. His career line - a .249 average, 59 homers, 210 RBIs, and 116 stolen bases - reflects a player still tapping into his potential. He’s not a finished product yet, but the tools are undeniable.
Why Boston?
The idea floated recently is that Boston could slide Abrams over to second base, pairing him with a platoon at first (Kristian Campbell and Triston Casas) to form an infield that’s both cost-effective and full of upside. That right side of the infield would reportedly cost the Red Sox under $10 million in 2026 - a big deal when you consider how much flexibility that creates elsewhere on the roster.
And that’s the point. If Boston is looking to make a splash elsewhere - say, bringing back a big-ticket name like Alex Bregman - having a young, controllable infield core helps balance the books. Abrams’ contract status and age make him especially appealing for a team trying to build a long-term contender without going deep into the luxury tax.
Are the Nationals Really Listening?
According to reports, Washington is getting “pushed aggressively” on Abrams, and there were whispers of trade interest during the Winter Meetings in Orlando. With new leadership in the Nationals’ front office, it sounds like they’re at least open to listening - and that’s all it takes to get the rumor mill turning.
That said, prying away a 25-year-old All-Star shortstop with four years of team control left won’t come cheap. The Nationals would likely demand a significant return, especially given how central Abrams has become to their rebuild. But if Boston sees him as a long-term fit and has the prospect capital to make it happen, it’s not out of the question.
What Would It Mean for Boston?
Adding Abrams would inject even more speed and athleticism into a lineup that’s already trending younger. His ability to impact the game on both sides - whether it’s turning a double play, swiping a key base, or driving the ball out of the park - gives him the kind of versatility that modern front offices crave.
It would also give Boston some flexibility with their infield alignment. If Abrams moves to second, it could open up new possibilities for how they deploy their other young pieces. And with a stacked outfield that’s still relatively inexpensive, the Red Sox would be in a strong position to invest elsewhere - whether that’s in pitching, a veteran bat, or re-signing a cornerstone player.
Final Thoughts
At this point, there’s no solid indication that Boston is actively pursuing Abrams. But the fit is intriguing, and the timing could be right.
The Red Sox are in the middle of a roster transformation, looking to blend youth with experience and build something sustainable. If Washington is truly listening, and if Boston sees Abrams as a foundational piece, don’t be surprised if this rumor gains traction.
He’s young. He’s explosive.
And he’s the kind of player that can change a franchise’s trajectory. Whether it’s Boston or somewhere else, CJ Abrams is a name to keep an eye on this offseason.