The Boston Red Sox find themselves at a crossroads after a stunning development shook the baseball world on Saturday night: Alex Bregman, the coveted All-Star third baseman, has reportedly signed a massive five-year, $175 million deal with the Chicago Cubs (https://nesn.com/2026/01/rumor-red-sox-lose-alex-bregman-sweepstakes/). This leaves Boston scrambling to fill the void left by a player who not only ignited their lineup but also served as a vital clubhouse leader in 2025. But here's where it gets interesting: the Red Sox aren't without options. The free agency and trade markets still hold promising hitters who could step up and make a significant impact.
And this is the part most people miss: while the Arizona Diamondbacks have reportedly taken Ketel Marte off the trading block (https://nesn.com/2026/01/rumored-red-sox-trade-target-reportedly-staying-put/), there are still several position players who could seamlessly fit into Boston's plans. Let's dive into five potential targets the Red Sox should consider as they navigate this unexpected turn of events.
1. Bo Bichette, SS, Free Agent
With Bregman out of the picture, Bo Bichette emerges as the most obvious free-agent target, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale (https://nesn.com/2026/01/red-sox-targeting-bo-bichette-after-alex-bregman-signs-cubs/). The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal echoed this sentiment, calling Bichette an “obvious” choice (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6960772/2026/01/11/alex-bregman-cubs-signing-free-agent-takeaways/). The 27-year-old shortstop has spent his entire career with the Toronto Blue Jays, but a position change could be on the horizon. In Boston, he could slide to second base, with Trevor Story manning shortstop and Marcelo Mayer taking over third base.
Bichette’s offensive resurgence in 2025, where he batted .311/.357/.483, makes him a compelling upgrade. While he may not be an elite power hitter, his ability to rack up doubles could thrive at Fenway Park. But here's where it gets controversial: is Bichette worth the long-term investment, especially if he’s moving to a new position? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
2. Eugenio Suárez, 3B, Free Agent
Eugenio Suárez may not match Bregman’s plate discipline or defensive prowess, but he brings something Boston desperately needs: elite power. Suárez matched his career-high with 49 home runs last season and leads all third basemen with 163 home runs over the past five years. With Rafael Devers’ void still looming and Story leading the team with just 25 home runs in 2025, Suárez could be the power bat the Red Sox are searching for.
However, at 34 years old and with a .298 on-base percentage in 2025, Suárez isn’t without his flaws. This raises a key question: would a short-term deal for Suárez be a smart move, or is his age and declining OBP a red flag? Share your take below.
3. Brendan Donovan, 2B/OF, St. Louis Cardinals
The Red Sox have already made two significant trades with the Cardinals, acquiring Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras. Could they strike again? Brendan Donovan, a career .282/.361/.411 hitter, could replicate Bregman’s on-base skills while offering defensive versatility. At 28, he’s a solid long-term option, but the Cardinals’ asking price could be a stumbling block (https://nesn.com/2026/01/red-soxs-alex-bregman-bo-bichette-backup-plan-hits-roadblock/). Is Donovan worth the cost, or should Boston look elsewhere?
4. Nolan Arenado, 3B, St. Louis Cardinals
If Donovan is out of reach, the Red Sox could get creative with Nolan Arenado. Once an elite player, Arenado’s numbers dipped in 2025 (.237/.289/.377), but he remains a 10-time Gold Glover and eight-time All-Star. Here’s the twist: the Cardinals might be willing to offload the remaining two years and $42 million of his contract, making him an affordable veteran leader for Boston. But is his decline too steep to justify the move? Let’s hear your opinions.
5. Isaac Paredes, 3B, Houston Astros
Isaac Paredes is a younger, long-term solution who fits the Bregman mold with his ability to limit strikeouts (17.4%) and draw walks (11.1%). The 26-year-old batted .254/.352/.458 with 20 home runs in 2025 and is under team control until 2028. However, acquiring him from the Astros won’t come cheap. The question remains: is Paredes worth the price tag, or should Boston focus on more immediate upgrades?
As the Red Sox navigate this pivotal offseason, one thing is clear: they have options. But which path will they choose? What do you think is the best move for Boston? Let us know in the comments below!
