The Boston Red Sox infield depth has kept them afloat during third baseman Alex Bregman’s stint on the injured list, but the trade deadline may bring a bigger fix — and a different infield alignment.
With Bregman out, Boston has leaned on a combination of Marcelo Mayer, Abraham Toro, Nate Eaton, and Nick Sogard to cover third base. Romy Gonzalez and David Hamilton have also appeared there.
This roster versatility has held things together, but with a second-half push in mind, the Red Sox’s front office could still add a power bat at third if they consider shifting Bregman over to second base.
Ryan McMahon of the Colorado Rockies could be an option. The 30-year-old third baseman has 12 home runs and 25 RBI but is batting just .220 due to high strikeout totals.
“(McMahon) is on pace to extend his streak to five consecutive seasons with an OPS+ between 93 and 98,” as R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports pointed out. His solid defense also makes him an appealing option for the Red Sox, even if it means adding another left-handed bat. With two years remaining on his contract, Anderson notes, “The Rockies would be wise to act now, lest they miss out on their window to get a quality return.”
Story continues below advertisement
Third baseman Eugenio Suárez (.257, 26 HR, 69 RBI) could also emerge as a potential target for the Red Sox lineup if the Arizona Diamondbacks emerge as sellers. While his defense is adequate, it is his right-handed power that would bring the most value.
Anderson highlighted his hot first half, writing that Suárez “is on pace for a career-high OPS+” and that he has logged “multiple 10-homer months, including a blistering June.” Suárez is set to become a free agent after this season, which might further entice the Snakes to move him.
The Red Sox have options — and if the deadline presents the right fit, they may not hesitate to make a move that reshapes their infield while adding more power their lineup.
Story continues below advertisement