The Red Sox have been relatively quiet this offseason when it comes to adding a bat, and with Alex Bregman no longer in the lineup, the need for an offensive boost is still hanging over the roster. There’s time to make a move, but so far, Boston hasn’t pulled the trigger-and that includes passing on a potential reunion with Eugenio Suárez.
Suárez ultimately chose to sign with the Reds, despite some buzz connecting him to Boston. But according to reports, the Red Sox never actually made a formal offer. So while the interest may have been real, it never progressed beyond the rumor mill.
That leaves Boston still searching-or perhaps standing pat-when it comes to upgrading their offense. One name that continues to surface in trade talks is Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals.
ESPN’s Buster Olney recently highlighted Donovan as one of the most intriguing position players currently on the market. According to Olney, multiple rival executives expect the Cardinals to move Donovan in the coming weeks.
The Mariners have shown interest, and the Red Sox are seen as a logical fit as well.
But here’s where things get complicated. Boston appears committed to giving top prospect Marcelo Mayer a real shot this year, and that could impact how aggressively they pursue external options. If Mayer ends up logging significant time at third base, the Red Sox may turn their attention to second base-where they’re currently eyeing a platoon of David Hamilton and Enmanuel Valdez (with Ceddanne Rafaela and Romy Gonzalez also in the mix).
So why not just go get someone like Donovan, who brings versatility and a solid bat? Well, roster construction isn’t just about filling holes in February-it’s about long-term planning, too.
Boston recently extended Kristain Campbell, and the organization sees him as a key piece moving forward. Committing to a second baseman on a multi-year deal could block Campbell’s path, which is something the front office seems intent on avoiding.
That’s why any addition at second base would likely come on a shorter-term basis, if at all. Donovan, while a strong candidate, may not align with that timeline unless the Red Sox see him as more than just a stopgap.
Another name that’s been floated is Isaac Paredes. He might make more sense from a team control standpoint, but again, if the plan is to roll with a platoon and let Mayer and Campbell grow into bigger roles, Boston might decide to stand pat.
Bottom line: the Red Sox are walking a fine line between competing now and preserving flexibility for the future. They’re not out of the market, but they’re also not in a rush. With spring training around the corner, the front office has some key decisions to make-especially if they want to keep pace in an increasingly competitive AL East.