Five Potential Trade Targets for the Boston Red Sox - Sports Illustrated

Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow wasted no time swinging the franchise’s first deal of the offseason Thursday, sending Nate Eaton to the Athletics in exchange for 18-year-old pitching prospect Jareth Rayo, [si.com] reported.

That trade is likely just the curtain-raiser for a busy winter in New England. With the collective bargaining agreement set to expire at the beginning of December, chatter is heating up around a front office that has routinely shown a willingness to deal from its roster. A handful of key contributors in Boston—including Willson Contreras, Adley Rutschman, Curtis Mead, and Caleb Durbin—arrived via the trade market. As [si.com] noted, five high-profile targets stand out for potential inquiries this winter.

Targeting Infield Power and Future Shortstops

Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks sits high on that list. Last offseason, Marte emerged as a primary trade target when the Red Sox hunted for infield upgrades. While Arizona ultimately held onto him, an offensive-minded acquisition of Marte would give Boston’s lineup an immediate jolt. Securing him could also prompt a roster shift, moving Curtis Mead into the designated hitter role.

A more long-term play at shortstop points toward CJ Abrams of the Washington Nationals. Landing Abrams would require parting with top prospect Franklin Arias, signaling a definitive commitment to locking down the middle infield for the foreseeable future. Taking it a step further, Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz represents an even bigger dream scenario. De La Cruz brings three seasons of control to the table compared to Abrams’ two, carrying legitimate MVP upside heading toward 2027.

Looking for Right-Handed Pop

For clubs seeking impact bats without emptying the entire farm system, sluggers like Bryce Harper and Ivan Herrera offer distinct paths forward. If the Philadelphia Phillies decide to retool following another postseason exit, Boston could position itself as a landing spot for the two-time MVP. Harper would slot neatly into the designated hitter role, though an outfield trade involving Wilyer Abreu could clear a path for his glove.

Meanwhile, St. Louis Cardinals hitter Ivan Herrera presents a far more realistic option for adding right-handed power. At just 26 years old, Herrera fits the offensive profile Boston needs as trade talks accelerate ahead of the December deadline.