The Boston Red Sox are back in the thick of offseason maneuvering, and this time, they’re not just browsing-they’re eyeing real opportunity. With the Houston Astros dealing with a crowded infield picture, Boston may be in position to capitalize.
Around the league, there’s a growing belief that Houston will need to make a move. The math just doesn’t work: too many capable infielders, not enough spots to go around.
When a contender like the Astros starts feeling that kind of roster squeeze, trade talks tend to heat up quickly. And that’s where the Red Sox enter the conversation.
One name that’s surfaced in connection with this potential reshuffling is Isaac Paredes, a two-time All-Star who fits the mold of what Boston is looking for. Paredes isn’t just a power bat-he’s a disciplined hitter with a swing that plays in any park.
Last season, he launched 19 home runs before the All-Star break and posted one of the best walk rates in the American League. He brings steady, reliable value-splitting time between third base and DH-and he does it without the volatility that often comes with power-first profiles.
With Alex Bregman no longer in the picture for Houston, Paredes is a logical candidate to take on a larger role-or become a trade chip. Meanwhile, Boston, fresh off locking in lefty Ranger Suárez and signaling a longer-term competitive window, could be a natural landing spot.
There’s even been chatter about a potential framework involving outfielder Jarren Duran, a controllable piece who fits Houston’s usual preference for long-term assets. It’s early, but the outlines of a deal make sense on paper.
While the front office works the phones, the Red Sox might already have found a low-key solution to one of their more pressing roster needs-this time, from within. As spring approaches, all eyes are on Shane Drohan, a left-hander who could help shore up a bullpen that’s currently light on southpaws.
Boston made rotation depth a priority this winter, adding Suárez, Sonny Gray, and Johan Oviedo to back up ace Garrett Crochet. That gives them a solid foundation of starters.
But when it comes to left-handed relief, the cupboard is surprisingly bare. As of now, Aroldis Chapman is the only proven lefty reliever on the 40-man roster.
Enter Drohan. The Red Sox protected the 24-year-old from the Rule 5 Draft this offseason, and for good reason.
He was lights-out at Triple-A Worcester in 2025, posting a 2.27 ERA, a 35.2% strikeout rate, and holding opponents to a .185 average. That kind of dominance gets noticed-especially when it comes from the left side.
What makes Drohan particularly valuable is his flexibility. He’s made it clear he’s willing to contribute wherever needed, whether that’s as a starter or in the bullpen. And with Boston’s current roster construction, that kind of versatility could make all the difference come Opening Day.
Between exploring trade opportunities and evaluating in-house talent, the Red Sox are clearly staying aggressive this offseason. Whether it’s a high-upside bat like Paredes or a breakout arm like Drohan, Boston seems intent on tightening the screws in all the right places.
