Red Sox Bet on Caleb Durbin to Boost 2026 Offense

Boston's trade for Durbin aims to strengthen lineup with contact hitting and defense

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Boston Red Sox have finalized a trade to acquire infielder Caleb Durbin from the Milwaukee Brewers, as part of a multi-player deal. This move is aimed at boosting the Red Sox's offensive potential for the 2026 season, with Durbin's elite contact skills and defensive abilities expected to be key contributors.

Why it matters

The Red Sox's offseason moves have focused on improving run prevention through pitching and defense, rather than adding a middle-of-the-order power bat. Durbin's acquisition represents a strategic shift towards a more balanced roster construction, relying on contact hitting and strong defense to complement their pitching staff.

The details

Durbin, a 14th-round draft pick by the Atlanta Braves, has emerged as a regular third baseman for the Brewers in 2025, posting a solid .256/.334/.387 batting line with excellent defensive work. His elite contact skills, featuring a 9.9% strikeout rate and 13.0% whiff rate, make him a valuable asset despite modest batted-ball metrics. The Red Sox also acquired infielders Anthony Seigler and Andruw Monasterio in the deal, providing additional depth and versatility.

  • The Red Sox finalized the trade just before Alex Cora's spring training press conference.
  • Durbin's rookie campaign in 2025 featured a 2.8 bWAR mark, ranking seventh among first-year players.

The players

Caleb Durbin

A 45-year-old infielder acquired by the Boston Red Sox from the Milwaukee Brewers, known for his elite contact skills and defensive abilities.

Kyle Harrison

A former top prospect acquired by the Red Sox in the Rafael Devers trade, who struggled with command and consistency at the Triple-A and MLB levels, leading to his inclusion in the trade to Milwaukee.

Shane Drohan

A left-handed reliever with a strong 2025 season at Triple-A, including a 2.27 ERA and 67 strikeouts in 47.2 innings, who was also traded to Milwaukee as part of the deal.

Craig Breslow

The Chief Baseball Officer of the Boston Red Sox, who emphasized the team's desire to improve their offense and find a middle-of-the-order power bat during the offseason.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox, who held a spring training press conference shortly after the team's acquisition of Caleb Durbin.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.