The Boston Red Sox may have made some moves this offseason, but with spring training looming, it’s clear Craig Breslow and the front office still have a few cards to play-especially when it comes to the infield.
After missing out on free agent Eugenio Suárez, who signed a one-year, $15 million deal with the Cincinnati Reds, the Red Sox are once again scanning the market for infield help. And while free agency may no longer hold the answer, the trade market is very much in play.
The Red Sox recently cleared some salary and roster space by moving one of the players acquired in last June’s Rafael Devers trade. That move wasn’t just about trimming the roster-it was a signal that Boston is still actively reshaping its infield mix.
One internal discussion reportedly centered around top prospect Marcelo Mayer potentially shifting to third base. That’s a noteworthy development, not just because of Mayer’s talent, but because it suggests the Red Sox are now in the market for a second baseman rather than a third.
There are a few names floating around that could fit that bill, though none will come cheap.
Ketel Marte is the kind of player who checks just about every box for Boston. A three-time All-Star with a Silver Slugger on his résumé, Marte brings offensive firepower and reliable defense at second base.
But there’s a catch-actually, a few. The Arizona Diamondbacks made it clear back in January that they’re not planning to move him.
And even if they change their stance, Marte will soon gain full trade veto rights thanks to 10-and-5 service time rules. He’s also under contract for five more seasons at $15 million annually, so any deal would require serious commitment-and likely a serious return.
Another intriguing option is Brendan Donovan of the St. Louis Cardinals.
Donovan is a versatile, high-OBP player who’s proven he can handle just about any position on the diamond. His .361 career on-base percentage speaks to his ability to work counts and get on base-two traits the Red Sox have been prioritizing in their search.
He’s also got that “gamer” label that front offices love, and he brings a gritty, competitive edge to any clubhouse.
The Cardinals aren’t actively shopping Donovan, but they’re not hanging up the phone either. They’ve reportedly been asking for multiple top prospects, which has kept teams like the Mariners and Giants from pulling the trigger so far. But as Opening Day gets closer, prices can drop-and Boston will be watching closely.
Beyond the bigger names, the Red Sox have also been linked to a few other trade targets who could help round out the infield. Isaac Paredes (Astros), Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw (Cubs) are all reportedly on the radar. Each brings something different-Paredes offers pop, Hoerner brings elite contact skills and defense, and Shaw is a rising talent with upside.
What’s clear is that Boston’s front office is prioritizing defense and contact as they look to finalize their roster. That’s a shift from some of their previous roster builds, and it lines up with the direction the game is trending-versatility, athleticism, and putting the ball in play are at a premium.
With camp around the corner, the clock is ticking. But don’t be surprised if Breslow has another move-or two-up his sleeve before pitchers and catchers report. The infield puzzle isn’t complete yet, but the Red Sox are working hard to find the right piece.