One of the most aggressive clubs in free agency this winter seems to be the Boston Red Sox. Boston will try their hand at free agency first, but they are also being linked to some of the best players available on the trade market. Bob Nightengale of USA Today has suggested that Boston might try to sign one of the infielders available this winter to play third base. In order to create space, Boston would have to move star Rafael Devers off third base.
According to Nightengale, the Red Sox are showing strong interest in All-Star free-agent shortstop Willy Adames, who is open to transitioning to third base. Internally, the team has considered moving Rafael Devers off third base, a topic set to be discussed in an upcoming meeting. The Red Sox are also exploring the possibility of trading for St. Louis Cardinals All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado or signing free agent Alex Bregman.
While these players bring significant talent, such moves may not provide substantial benefits for Boston. Additionally, acquiring any of these third basemen would be costly, with Willy Adames potentially seeking a contract nearing $200 million.
There are currently better places in Boston to spend this type of money. In addition to third base, it has vacancies in the bullpen, starting rotation, and other positions in the lineup. This kind of move should only be undertaken if Boston is in dire need of moving Devers from third base to another position. This would be a very costly approach if the Red Sox are only trying to add whatever talent they can find.
