The Minnesota Twins made a depth-focused move on Wednesday, acquiring utility infielder Tristan Gray from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for minor-league catcher Nate Baez. It’s a classic roster-tweaking deal in the heart of the offseason, but there’s more to unpack here-especially when it comes to Gray’s journey, his skill set, and what this means for a Twins infield that’s already brimming with talent.
A Well-Traveled Infielder with Versatility
At 29 years old, Tristan Gray is no stranger to the transaction wire. Since debuting in the majors in 2023, he’s already suited up for the Rays, Marlins, and Athletics, and now finds himself with his fourth big-league club in less than a year. Across 47 MLB games, Gray has slashed .207/.264/.369 with four home runs and 10 RBIs-not eye-popping numbers, but enough to show flashes of pop and potential.
Last season, he played 30 games for Tampa Bay, hitting .231 with three homers and nine RBIs. But his more consistent production came at the Triple-A level, where he spent time with Charlotte in the White Sox organization. There, he posted a .270 average with nine home runs and 44 RBIs in 72 games-a solid showing that underscores his ability to contribute offensively when given regular reps.
Originally drafted by the Pirates in the 13th round back in 2017 out of Rice University, Gray has carved out a niche as a reliable, plug-and-play infielder. In eight minor-league seasons, he’s put together a .241/.313/.456 slash line with 136 home runs and nearly 500 RBIs. He’s not afraid to swing and miss-831 strikeouts in 808 games-but he also brings some pop and patience, with 283 career walks and 165 doubles to his name.
What really gives Gray a shot at sticking in Minnesota is his defensive flexibility. He’s logged major league starts at all four infield spots, which makes him a valuable piece for any team looking to weather the grind of a 162-game season. That versatility is currency in today’s game.
Where He Fits in Minnesota
The challenge for Gray? Cracking a Twins infield that’s already pretty well set.
Josh Bell is locked in at first, Luke Keaschall is expected to handle second, Brooks Lee is the guy at shortstop, and Royce Lewis has third base on lock. Kody Clemens is penciled in as a utility option, which leaves Gray battling it out with a handful of others-Orlando Arcia, Edouard Julien, Eric Wagaman, and Ryan Kreidler-for what could be one or two bench spots.
Gray’s path to the Opening Day roster will likely come down to how he performs in spring training. If he can show a hot bat and continue flashing that multi-positional glove, he could force the Twins’ hand. He’s not a flashy pickup, but he’s the kind of player who can quietly become a key contributor over the course of a long season.
To make room for Gray on the 40-man roster, the Twins designated Vidal Brujan for assignment. Brujan had just been claimed off waivers from the Braves on January 14 and never got the chance to suit up for Minnesota. It’s a quick turnaround, but that’s often the reality for fringe-roster players this time of year.
Boston Clears Space, Adds Catching Depth
From Boston’s side, this move was about clearing a roster spot. The Red Sox had acquired Gray from Tampa Bay back in November in exchange for reliever Luis Guerrero.
Gray was added to the 40-man roster but didn’t get into a game for Boston. His departure helped the Sox finalize their five-year, $130 million deal with lefty starter Ranger Suarez-a significant addition to their rotation.
In return, Boston picks up 24-year-old catcher Nate Baez, who adds depth to their minor-league system. A 12th-round pick by the Twins in 2022 out of Arizona State, Baez has shown some offensive upside in the minors.
He’s hit .263 with 25 home runs and 115 RBIs over four seasons and posted a .278 average with a .794 OPS across 96 games last year, splitting time between High-A Cedar Rapids and Double-A Wichita. He’s also shown some defensive flexibility, logging innings at catcher, first base, and DH.
The Bottom Line
This is the kind of under-the-radar trade that doesn’t make headlines but can quietly pay dividends down the road. For Minnesota, Gray brings a veteran presence and a glove that can move around the infield-a valuable insurance policy as the season unfolds. For Boston, Baez adds to a position group that always needs depth, and the move opens the door for a major rotation upgrade.
Don’t expect fireworks from this deal, but don’t be surprised if one of these players ends up playing a meaningful role in 2026.