The Boston Red Sox are on the cusp of a significant roster upgrade, and it might just be one more trade away from a team that surpasses last year's performance. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow is strategically aiming to bolster the team's strength and identity, particularly in the pitching and infield departments. With a 14-strong starting pitching lineup, the Red Sox are already looking deep, but Breslow's vision is to make a bold move that could tip the scales in their favor.
The current roster is already a step up from last year's, but Breslow sees room for improvement. The addition of Ranger Suárez, a free agent with a 1.48 ERA in 11 postseason outings, and Sonny Gray, who has posted a 3.26 ERA in six starts, has transformed the starting rotation. However, Breslow is not stopping there. He is eyeing a significant trade to acquire another infielder, specifically a complete player like Cubs' second baseman Nico Hoerner, who has been in recent trade rumors.
Hoerner's .297 batting average and 17 defensive runs saved in 1,326 innings, coupled with his Gold Glove win, make him an ideal target. Breslow's strategy is to go big with one final trade, focusing on defense as much as offense. The infielders need to be able to make all the routine plays to maximize the pitching staff, which Breslow considers the Red Sox's strength and identity.
The Sox entered the offseason needing to add two hitters, and with the trade addition of Willson Contreras, they are already making strides. Contreras, who ranked in the 91st percentile in outs above average among big league first basemen last year, is expected to replace some of Bregman's right-handed production. Manager Alex Cora has already identified Contreras as Boston's cleanup hitter.
If the Red Sox add one more impact hitter, the 2026 offense should be better than last year's at least on paper. Bregman, who was an incredibly important lineup force, is replaceable. His production is not that of 2001 Barry Bonds, and the Red Sox have the potential to fill the gap.
Breslow upgraded his first base defense with Contreras, but the overall infield defense is still a question mark, especially with the roster incomplete. Marcelo Mayer has the potential to be a plus defender at either third or second base, depending on how the roster shakes out. Trevor Story, who had a down season defensively at shortstop, is expected to improve as he gets back into shape after surgeries.
Left-handed relief pitching and catching depth are two minor areas where Boston could upgrade. All eyes are on Breslow adding an infielder who can have a significant impact both offensively and defensively. It is necessary and very achievable, as Breslow can trade from starting pitching depth and outfield depth without gutting the farm system or hurting the big league roster.
This current roster would match last year's 89-win total. One more big move could make them a 93+ win team. The Red Sox are on the right track, and with Breslow's strategic moves, they are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
