Red Sox Outfielder Yoshida Addresses Trade Rumors

Yoshida opened up on his uncertain future in Boston's crowded outfield.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Boston Red Sox outfielder Masataka Yoshida discussed the trade rumors surrounding him this offseason, acknowledging that the frequent player movement in MLB is a new experience for him after playing in Japan. With a crowded outfield in Boston, Yoshida's playing time is unclear, leading to speculation that the team may look to trade the 32-year-old and the $37 million remaining on his contract.

Why it matters

Yoshida's comments provide insight into how he is handling the trade rumors and uncertainty around his role with the Red Sox. As a key offseason acquisition, his ability to adapt and contribute will be crucial for Boston's success, especially with the team's outfield depth.

The details

Yoshida, who was limited to only 55 games last season due to injury, primarily served as a designated hitter. With the Red Sox expected to rotate a combination of Roman Anthony, Jarren Duran, Wilyer Abreu and Ceddanne Rafaela in the outfield, Yoshida's path to consistent playing time is unclear. Though he remained civil when asked about a potential trade, Yoshida acknowledged that the frequent player movement in MLB is a new experience for him after playing in Japan, where trades are less common.

  • Yoshida's comments came on February 16, 2026.

The players

Masataka Yoshida

A 32-year-old outfielder for the Boston Red Sox who is entering the third year of a five-year, $90 million contract.

Roman Anthony

A Red Sox outfielder who is expected to be part of the team's outfield rotation.

Jarren Duran

A Red Sox outfielder who is expected to be part of the team's outfield rotation.

Wilyer Abreu

A Red Sox outfielder who is expected to be part of the team's outfield rotation.

Ceddanne Rafaela

A Red Sox outfielder who is expected to be part of the team's outfield rotation.

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What they’re saying

“It's hard to say. That's not what I'm thinking right now. All my thinking right now is to perform, play well, play hard.”

— Masataka Yoshida (The Athletic)

“That's something I didn't really experience back in Japan, trades don't really happen that much, as often as they do here. It's something new, but if you trade somebody, both (teams) have to agree, so that's going to be tough. It's part of the business, but it's something that's new to me after I got here. It depends on what the situation is. But I'm open to anything.”

— Masataka Yoshida (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Red Sox will need to determine Yoshida's role and playing time heading into the 2026 season, which could impact whether they ultimately decide to trade him.

The takeaway

Yoshida's comments highlight the challenges he has faced in adjusting to the more frequent player movement in MLB compared to his experience in Japan. As the Red Sox navigate their outfield depth, Yoshida's ability to adapt and contribute will be crucial for the team's success.