Red Sox Seek Infield Solution After Missing Out on Suárez

Boston must find a replacement for Alex Bregman after he signed with the Cubs in free agency.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 6:15pm

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The Boston Red Sox are in need of an infielder after losing Alex Bregman to the Chicago Cubs in free agency. The team missed out on signing Eugenio Suárez, who agreed to a deal with the Cincinnati Reds. Now, the Red Sox are exploring options like trading for Nico Hoerner of the Cubs, Alec Bohm of the Phillies, or Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals.

Why it matters

The Red Sox are looking to compete in the tough American League East, but without a proven infielder, they may struggle to keep up with the Yankees and Blue Jays. Finding the right replacement for Bregman is crucial for Boston's playoff hopes.

The details

The Red Sox reportedly did not make a formal offer to Suárez, who ended up signing with the Reds. Now, the team is exploring trade options, including Nico Hoerner of the Cubs, Alec Bohm of the Phillies, and Brendan Donovan of the Cardinals. Hoerner would likely cost a top pitching prospect, while Bohm's below-average defense could be a concern. Donovan, a versatile infielder, may be the most realistic option, as the Red Sox and Cardinals have already made two trades this offseason.

  • The Red Sox lost Alex Bregman to the Cubs in free agency.
  • Eugenio Suárez agreed to a deal with the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday.

The players

Nico Hoerner

A second baseman for the Chicago Cubs who is coming off a strong season with a 6.2 WAR.

Alec Bohm

A third baseman for the Philadelphia Phillies who is a solid hitter but has below-average defense.

Brendan Donovan

A versatile infielder for the St. Louis Cardinals who could play multiple positions for the Red Sox.

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What’s next

The Red Sox will need to decide which infielder they want to target and be willing to pay the necessary price to acquire them before the start of the season.

The takeaway

The Red Sox have a significant hole to fill in their infield after losing Bregman, and their failure to sign Suárez has left them scrambling to find a suitable replacement. Their success in the competitive AL East may hinge on their ability to find the right infielder to shore up their roster.