Despite signing veteran infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa to a $6 million contract for 2026, the Boston Red Sox have not ended speculation surrounding Matt Shaw trade rumors this winter. General manager Craig Breslow remains eager to acquire a high-impact infielder before Opening Day, keeping the team actively involved in the market for additional talent.
According to reports from Sean McAdam of MassLive, the Red Sox do not view Kiner-Falefa as a regular starter and continue to seek an infielder who offers greater offensive potential.
Fortunately, there’s evidence to suggest that the Red Sox do not, in fact, see Kiner-Falefa as anything close to an everyday player. Industry sources indicate the team is still very much in the market for another infielder, presumably one with far more offensive upside.
?Industry sources
Matt Shaw Seen as More Likely Trade Candidate Than Nico Hoerner
Within the options under consideration, both Matt Shaw and Nico Hoerner match the profile of players with notable upside. However, Shaw appears to be a more probable candidate for a trade, although such a move would require strong persuasion of Cubs executive Jed Hoyer.
An extension for Hoerner, potentially negotiated this spring, could increase the chances of Shaw being traded, as it would lessen the Cubs’ need to retain Shaw to cover Hoerner’s position during free agency. Still, no concrete updates regarding Hoerner’s contract have emerged.
Other Clubs’ Roles and Red Sox Challenges in Strengthening the Roster
The Cubs are not the sole organization linked to this infield pursuit. The Houston Astros might consider trading former Cub Isaac Paredes to Boston in exchange for an impactful outfielder, though Astros executive Dana Brown has so far resisted moving the power-hitting All-Star.
Additionally, the Red Sox might revisit efforts to acquire Ketel Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks. These possibilities suggest Boston’s winter strategy is far from straightforward, and Chicago shows no intention yet of parting with its talented infielders.
Pressure Mounts on Red Sox Front Office and Fans Await Key Moves
With Boston having lost Alex Bregman to the Cubs, the absence of a major infield addition risks dissatisfaction among Red Sox supporters. Without bolstering the lineup further, fans are likely to feel frustrated and disappointed by the outcome of the offseason.
