Marcelo Mayer is no longer just a top prospect with sky-high potential-he’s now a central piece of the Red Sox’s infield plans, and possibly their future. Drafted fourth overall in 2021, Mayer arrived in the organization with franchise-player expectations.
Now, five years later, the 23-year-old shortstop is set to break camp with the big-league club and open the 2026 season on the Red Sox’s roster. And from the sound of things, Boston has a specific role in mind for him.
After a brief but telling stint in the majors last season, Mayer showed he can handle multiple infield spots. He was initially called up to fill in for Alex Bregman at third base while Bregman dealt with a quad injury.
Mayer logged nearly 250 innings at the hot corner, flashing elite defensive instincts and range. When Bregman returned, Mayer shifted over to second base, where he tacked on another 50-plus innings.
The glove didn’t miss a beat-he finished with two Outs Above Average at third and one at second, giving the Sox plenty to think about heading into 2026.
And it seems they’ve made their choice.
According to reports, Boston plans to start Mayer at third base to open the season. That decision gives chief baseball officer Craig Breslow a clear target: find a second baseman to complete the infield. With Spring Training fast approaching, the Red Sox are actively working the trade market to fill that final spot.
They’re not just kicking the tires, either. According to multiple reports, Boston is involved in serious trade discussions across the league.
One name that’s surfaced is Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner. A two-time Gold Glove winner, Hoerner would bring elite defense and a steady right-handed bat to the middle infield.
He’s arguably the top second baseman available on the trade market, and the Red Sox are far from the only team checking in on his availability.
But he’s not the only name on Boston’s radar.
Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals and Isaac Paredes of the Astros have also been linked to the Sox. Donovan, a 2023 All-Star, has spent much of his career as a utility man but played 80% of his innings at second base last season.
The one wrinkle? He’s a left-handed hitter, and the Red Sox are reportedly looking to add a righty bat to balance the lineup.
That’s where Paredes gets interesting. While he’s primarily played third base-where Mayer is now penciled in-he does have experience at second.
About 10% of his career defensive innings have come at the keystone, although none since 2023. Still, his career numbers at second are solid, including three Outs Above Average, suggesting he could handle the position if asked.
The Red Sox’s decision to anchor Mayer at third base narrows their options, but it also sharpens their focus. They’re not just looking to fill a hole-they’re looking to upgrade. And with All-Star caliber talent like Hoerner, Donovan, and Paredes in the mix, it’s clear Boston is aiming high.
One thing is certain: the Red Sox’s infield defense is trending up. Whether it’s Hoerner’s glove, Donovan’s versatility, or Paredes’ power potential, the team is positioning itself for a stronger, more dynamic infield in 2026. And with Mayer stepping into a full-time role, the Sox are betting big on the next wave of talent to carry them forward.