The Red Sox's infield trade strategy takes an unexpected turn after Ketel Marte's trade status update.
For most of the offseason, the Boston Red Sox had their eyes on Ketel Marte as a potential infield trade candidate, serving as a backup plan in case they couldn't secure Alex Bregman. However, just as Bregman was about to ink a deal with the Chicago Cubs, the Arizona Diamondbacks announced their decision to remove Marte from the trade block.
According to Arizona's general manager, Mike Hazen, no team came close to acquiring Marte this offseason, and he never anticipated a deal would materialize. Some Red Sox fans and media personalities remain optimistic, suggesting that the recent signing of Ranger Suárez might encourage Arizona to reconsider Marte's availability, especially with the team's strengthened starting rotation.
Unfortunately, a major league source close to the D-Backs' plans reveals that the door to a Marte trade remains 'firmly shut.' This news comes from Alex Speier of The Boston Globe, who notes that the Red Sox will need to explore other options for infield reinforcements, likely through the trade market.
With the Marte trade seemingly off the table, Isaac Paredes has emerged as a top target for the Red Sox. MLB insider Jon Heyman confirms that Boston has been in contact with the Houston Astros regarding a potential trade.
Paredes, a right-handed batter, offers a much-needed balance to the Red Sox's lineup. His swing is well-suited to Fenway Park, particularly the Green Monster, as evidenced by his 20 home runs last year, all of which cleared left field. In 2025, Paredes ranked in the upper quartile of the league in walk rate, chase rate, and whiff rate, and in the 74th percentile in strikeout rate.
However, Paredes' defensive capabilities are a concern. He posted -3 outs above average and -4 defensive runs saved last season, which is below the standard set by the Red Sox's recent trade of Rafael Devers for a defensive upgrade at third base. Despite this, the Red Sox may have to settle for Paredes due to the advanced stage of the offseason.
In summary, the Red Sox's infield trade strategy is in flux, with the Marte trade seemingly off the table and Paredes emerging as a potential solution to their third base vacancy.
