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Boston’s offseason still feels unfinished. With Alex Bregman signing elsewhere, the Red Sox are widely expected to pursue at least one more infielder to round out their roster. The club has several paths to that upgrade, and each choice would reshape how Boston approaches both defense and the middle of the lineup.
Why an infielder remains a top priority for the Red Sox
The need is simple: Boston lacks a settled routine starter in the infield. Prospect flexibility from Marcelo Mayer eases the pressure. Mayer can slot at second or third, but the team still appears to want a proven bat alongside him.
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- Starting role still open: The club wants a regular, not just depth.
- Versatility matters: Mayer’s ability to play two spots broadens options.
- Fenway factors: Any signing must fit the park and Boston’s lineup plan.
Free-agent power option that makes sense for Fenway
One name repeatedly mentioned in industry coverage is Eugenio Suarez. He would bring significant pop to Boston’s lineup. Last season he totaled 49 homers, split between Arizona and Seattle.
Suarez offers right-handed power that plays to Fenway’s dimensions. He also remains available in free agency, which gives Boston a faster route to compliance than a trade might.
Pros and cons of pursuing Suarez
- Pros: Proven long-ball threat, immediate middle-of-order presence.
- Cons: Defensive metrics and contract demands could be sticking points.
- Market note: His unsigned status suggests teams are weighing value versus cost.
Trade targets: realistic options from other clubs
Trades could yield younger, cost-controlled infielders. Names circulating include Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes and Cardinals second baseman Brendan Donovan. Both profiles offer differing benefits.
- Isaac Paredes: Left-handed power with pop that could target Fenway’s Green Monster.
- Brendan Donovan: Positional flexibility and defensive value, with upside at the plate.
- Nico Hoerner of the Cubs has also been linked in trade chatter around the league.
How a trade differs from a free-agent signing
- Trades often cost prospects or young talent.
- Free agents can be plugged in immediately without surrendering organizational depth.
- Club control and payroll timeline influence the decision.
How Marcelo Mayer affects Boston’s decision
Mayer’s ability to play second and third gives Boston flexibility. If the club adds a third baseman, Mayer could settle at second. If a second baseman arrives, Mayer could slide to third or remain a utility option.
This positional wiggle room makes both free-agent and trade targets viable. Boston can prioritize bat or glove depending on who becomes available.
Roster scenarios to watch in the coming weeks
- Signing a free agent like Eugenio Suarez would likely lock in the middle of the order.
- A trade for Paredes or Donovan could shift prospect plans or open playing time for Mayer.
- If Boston waits, it risks losing prime targets to competing clubs.
Other MLB stories worth following
- Team USA’s projected WBC lineup draws major interest.
- The Dominican Republic appears loaded for the WBC.
- Trent Grisham’s decision altered the Yankees’ offseason blueprint.
- Buster Posey’s Hall of Fame case is changing voting norms.
- Bo Bichette’s recent remarks sparked debate about consistency.
- Andrew McCutchen has voiced frustration with the Pirates organization.
