Hold onto your hats, Red Sox fans! Even with pitchers and catchers about to report, it seems the team isn't done making moves to bolster their infield for the upcoming 2026 season.
While the Boston Red Sox have certainly been busy this offseason, there's a lingering question mark over their infield. Multiple reports suggest that the team might have another trick up their sleeve before the 2026 season officially kicks off. ESPN's MLB insider, Jeff Passan, believes the Red Sox are poised to make at least one more acquisition, though the exact target remains a bit of a mystery. He mentioned potential fits like Isaac Paredes or even Christian Walker, though he's not entirely convinced about the Cubs being a trade partner for the Red Sox, despite some initial speculation.
But here's where it gets interesting: whispers from The Boston Globe's Alex Speier indicate that the Red Sox might be prioritizing defensive upgrades in the infield over pure power hitters. This could shift the focus of their search.
Let's dive into some of the names being tossed around. Isaac Paredes, a 26-year-old third baseman, has been a popular name in Red Sox trade rumors, especially after Alex Bregman joined the Cubs. Paredes has shown consistent hitting ability, with a .254 batting average, 20 home runs, and 53 RBIs last season, along with a solid .809 OPS. He's been a reliable performer for the Rays and Cubs over the past few years, averaging around 23 homers annually.
Now, the Houston Astros do have a bit of an infield crowded situation, but trading Paredes isn't necessarily a must for them. He's still under team control for two more years and was a key piece in the trade that sent Kyle Tucker to Houston. So, any deal involving him would likely require a compelling offer.
Then there's Christian Walker, who could certainly inject some much-needed power into the Red Sox lineup. At 34, he's a proven slugger, hitting at least 25 homers in each of the last four seasons. However, Walker is primarily a first baseman, and the Red Sox already addressed that position by acquiring Willson Contreras. Unless they can creatively utilize the designated hitter spot, Walker might not be the most logical fit.
Speaking of the Cubs, some fans wondered if second baseman Nico Hoerner would be available after Bregman's signing. Passan, however, doesn't see that happening. Despite this, the Red Sox have reportedly shown interest in both Hoerner and Matt Shaw, according to Speier.
Hoerner, at 28, is a highly regarded middle infielder known for his all-around game. While not a power hitter, he posted a .297 batting average and 29 stolen bases in 2025, also earning his second Gold Glove in three years. The catch? He's only under team control for one more season, which could make him a short-term solution.
Another name that surfaced earlier in the offseason was Arizona Diamondbacks' second baseman Ketel Marte. While the Diamondbacks ultimately decided to keep him, Passan mentioned that the asking price was "heavy." The Red Sox were considered a good match due to their pitching depth, which could have been a valuable asset in a trade.
And this is the part most people miss: for now, the Red Sox might be looking internally to fill their infield needs. There's a possibility that Marcelo Mayer could step in as their full-time third baseman, with Romy Gonzalez and David Hamilton sharing duties at second base. Jon Heyman of the New York Post has reported that this is a scenario the team might consider for the upcoming season.
So, what do you think, Red Sox faithful? Are you confident in the team's current infield plans, or do you believe another significant acquisition is crucial for a successful season? Should they prioritize defense over power, or is it a balance they need to strike? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
