The Boston Red Sox are still searching for that difference-making bat to plug into their infield - and so far, it’s been a swing and a miss. After losing Alex Bregman to the Cubs, Boston has been on the hunt for a replacement who can bring both offensive punch and defensive stability. But with a few of their rumored targets now off the board, the options are narrowing.
Eugenio Suárez and Brendan Donovan were reportedly on the Red Sox’s radar, but both are no longer available. That’s left Boston looking elsewhere, with Isaac Paredes emerging as a potential trade target. However, the latest comments from Houston Astros GM Dana Brown suggest prying him away won’t be easy.
“Right now, both of them are still part of our roster and we have plans for both of them to play,” Brown said when asked about Paredes and Christian Walker. “Right now, our plan is for both of them to be there.”
That’s not a hard “no” on a trade, but it’s clear Houston has a vision for Paredes in their lineup. If anything, they might be more inclined to move Walker and slide Paredes back over to first base - a position he’s familiar with. That doesn’t completely rule out a deal, but it does make it more complicated for Boston, who likely hoped Paredes could be pried loose with the right offer.
If Paredes is off the table, the Red Sox are running out of clear-cut options. Their focus appears to be on adding an infielder - not surprising, considering the outfield is already crowded with talent. But finding the right fit is proving to be a challenge.
One potential avenue could involve circling back to the Cubs. With Bregman now in Chicago, there’s some logic in exploring whether Matt Shaw or Nico Hoerner could be pried away.
The Cubs may be more willing to part with one of them now that their infield picture has changed. Both players bring a mix of youth, versatility, and upside that fits what Boston needs.
If no deal materializes, though, the Red Sox may have to roll with what they’ve got - and that means leaning into some unproven options. Top prospect Marcelo Mayer could open the season at third base, while second base might be a platoon situation featuring Romy Gonzalez and David Hamilton. Kristian Campbell is another name in the mix, but he likely needs more seasoning in Triple-A before he’s ready for a full-time role.
Bottom line: Boston still has time, but the clock is ticking. The infield needs a boost, and unless something changes on the trade front, the Red Sox may be forced to rely on internal development - and a little bit of hope - to fill the void left by Bregman.