The Red Sox are eyeing potential trades, with a focus on infielders Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw. The team's interest in these players comes as a result of Alex Bregman's recent signing with the Cubs, which has left the Red Sox with an uncertain infield lineup. With Bregman now at third base, the Red Sox are considering their options for second base and the remaining infield positions.
Top prospect Marcelo Mayer is a strong candidate for one of these spots, but the Red Sox are also keeping an eye on free agents and trade targets like Isaac Paredes, Brendan Donovan, and Eugenio Suarez. However, the real intrigue lies in the potential trade involving Hoerner and Shaw. The Cubs may be open to offers for Hoerner, but they are unlikely to part with a two-time Gold Glover and above-average hitter.
The Red Sox, on the other hand, are looking to bolster their pitching depth and bring in young talent. With free agents like Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd on the horizon, the team is considering trades that could bring in Payton Tolle or Connelly Early. The question remains whether the Red Sox will trade from their high-level pitching depth to acquire Hoerner or Shaw, especially given their existing position-player building blocks.
Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has been active in trades since taking over the front office in 2023, but his only deal so far has been the Garrett Cooper-for-cash considerations trade. The Cubs' front office experience and Breslow's connection to the team could play a role in any potential trades involving Hoerner or Shaw.
