Red Sox Sign Isiah Kiner-Falefa to Bolster Infield Defense

One-year, $6 million deal adds versatile defender to Boston's roster

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The Boston Red Sox have agreed to a one-year, $6 million contract with free agent infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa. The 30-year-old split the 2025 season between the Pirates and Blue Jays, playing primarily at shortstop but also logging time at third base and second base. The signing aligns with Boston's offseason emphasis on run prevention and defensive improvements.

Why it matters

The Red Sox have openings at second and third base following the departure of Alex Bregman. Kiner-Falefa's defensive versatility allows Boston to deploy him at multiple infield positions, providing depth and flexibility. The move also signals the team's focus on building a strong defensive unit to complement their pitching staff.

The details

Kiner-Falefa is a former Gold Glove winner who grades as a plus defender across the infield. Offensively, he offers strong contact skills but limited power, posting a .660 career OPS. The Red Sox could use him primarily at second base, allowing top prospect Marcelo Mayer to shift to third base. Boston remains active in the trade market, with continued ties to Houston's Isaac Paredes and Chicago infielders Matt Shaw and Nico Hoerner.

  • The Red Sox agreed to the one-year, $6 million deal with Kiner-Falefa on February 6, 2026.

The players

Isiah Kiner-Falefa

A 30-year-old infielder who split the 2025 season between the Pirates and Blue Jays, appearing in 138 games while logging time at three different infield positions.

Marcelo Mayer

The Red Sox top prospect, who could shift to third base with the addition of Kiner-Falefa.

Craig Breslow

The Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer, who has emphasized the team's focus on run prevention and defensive improvements this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think there's a question anymore that the identity of our team and the strength of our team is going to be our pitching and our ability to prevent runs.”

— Craig Breslow, Chief Baseball Officer, Boston Red Sox (bostonsportsjournal.com)

What’s next

The Red Sox remain active in the trade market, with continued ties to Houston's Isaac Paredes and Chicago infielders Matt Shaw and Nico Hoerner. If Opening Day were today, Boston would likely slot Kiner-Falefa at second base and bat him toward the bottom of the lineup.

The takeaway

The addition of Isiah Kiner-Falefa aligns with the Red Sox's offseason emphasis on run prevention and defensive improvements. His versatility across the infield provides depth and flexibility, allowing the team to focus on building a strong defensive unit to complement their pitching staff.