The Boston Red Sox made a big splash by locking in Ranger Suárez on a five-year, $130 million deal, but the buzz around the league suggests they’re not done yet. With a surplus of starting pitching and outfield depth, Boston is in a strong position to make another move - this time, likely targeting an infielder to round out their roster.
MLB insiders are already connecting the dots. While some have floated names like Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals, the most realistic name gaining traction right now is Isaac Paredes.
According to Ken Rosenthal, who spoke on Foul Territory, Ketel Marte and Nico Hoerner were also discussed as potential fits, but Marte is reportedly off the trade block and a Hoerner deal seems unlikely. That leaves Paredes as the most viable and intriguing option.
Let’s break down why Paredes makes sense for Boston - and why he could be the next domino to fall.
A Power Bat with Positional Versatility
At 26, Isaac Paredes has quietly built a reputation as one of the more consistent power hitters in the league. Since debuting with the Tigers in 2020, he’s taken a winding path through Detroit, Tampa Bay, Chicago, and Houston, but the numbers speak for themselves: a career .237 average, 92 home runs, 287 RBIs, and a .766 OPS over 566 games. Add in 11.2 WAR, and you’re looking at a player who brings real value - especially from the infield.
In 2025, after being traded to the Astros in the Kyle Tucker deal, Paredes delivered despite missing significant time with a hamstring injury. He hit .254 with 20 homers and 53 RBIs across 102 games, earning his second All-Star selection (this time as a replacement for José Ramírez). He made an immediate impact in Houston, launching his first home run as an Astro on April 11 against the Angels and delivering a walk-off blast against the Royals on May 13 - a moment that quickly endeared him to the Minute Maid Park faithful.
The injury bug did bite hard, though. A severe hamstring strain on July 19 forced him to miss two months, and he returned late in the season in a limited role as a DH. Still, Astros GM Dana Brown has confirmed that Paredes will be fully healthy for spring training, which is a key point for any team considering a trade.
Why Boston Makes Sense
The Red Sox have built up their pitching depth this offseason, and with a crowded outfield, they have the trade chips to make a deal. What they don’t have is a locked-in answer at second or third base, especially if they’re looking to upgrade offensively. Paredes brings pop from the right side, positional flexibility, and a track record of producing in big moments - exactly the kind of player who could balance out Boston’s lineup.
He’s also arbitration-eligible for 2026, which means he’s still under team control, but his price tag is climbing. That could motivate Houston to move him now if the return is right - and Boston, flush with assets and clearly in win-now mode, might be the perfect partner.
Bottom line: The Red Sox aren’t done. And if they’re eyeing Isaac Paredes, they’re thinking about more than just filling a hole - they’re looking to add a bat that can change games. Keep an eye on this one.