The Boston Red Sox are facing a critical juncture in their infield strategy, and it’s a situation that could reshape their future. Alex Bregman’s unexpected departure to the Cubs has left a gaping hole at both second and third base, just as Spring Training looms on the horizon. While top prospect Marcelo Mayer seems poised to claim one of these spots—likely at third base—the other remains a question mark. Romy Gonzalez, Nick Sogard, and Kristian Campbell are in the mix, but none are guaranteed starters. And this is the part most people miss: the Red Sox aren’t just sitting on their hands. They’re actively exploring options, including free agents like Isaac Paredes, Brendan Donovan, and Eugenio Suarez. But here’s where it gets controversial: Boston has also reportedly ‘checked in’ on Cubs infielders Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw, according to Alex Speier of the Boston Globe. Could a trade between Bregman’s new and former teams be on the horizon? It’s a bold move that would certainly raise eyebrows, though there’s no indication a deal is close.
The Cubs, meanwhile, have solidified their infield with Bregman at third, Hoerner at second, Dansby Swanson at shortstop, and Michael Busch at first. Their outfield is set with Ian Happ, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Seiya Suzuki, and the DH spot could rotate to give players rest. This setup would allow prospects like Shaw, Moises Ballesteros, and Kevin Alcantara to ease into the majors without the pressure of everyday roles. But trading Hoerner or Shaw would disrupt these plans. Hoerner, a two-time Gold Glover and above-average hitter, is a free agent next winter, while Shaw, who debuted in 2025, is seen as his long-term replacement at second base—or even in the outfield, as the Cubs are exploring.
Here’s the kicker: would the Cubs really part with a proven star like Hoerner or a high-ceiling prospect like Shaw? It would take a lot, especially for Hoerner, who’s arguably the best defensive second baseman in the game. For Shaw, it would take even more, given his team control and potential. Boston’s pitching depth—think Payton Tolle or Connelly Early—could pique Chicago’s interest, but would the Sox give up such talent for one year of Hoerner? Unlikely. Tolle or Early might be on the table for Shaw, but even that’s a stretch.
And this is where it gets even more intriguing: why would the Red Sox trade pitching for an infielder when they already have Mayer and other position players in the pipeline? If Mayer pans out, he could anchor third base, second base, or even shortstop. In that case, Hoerner might be a better fit as a stopgap for 2026, giving Boston time to evaluate their younger talent. But would acquiring Shaw—a long-term piece—make sense if Mayer is the real deal? It’s a question that divides opinions.
Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, a former Cubs executive, has been active on the trade front since taking over in October 2023. However, his only deal with his old team so far was the Garrett Cooper trade in April 2024. Could this be the moment he makes a splash?
What do you think? Is trading for Hoerner or Shaw the right move for the Red Sox, or should they focus on internal options? And would the Cubs really part with either player? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that’s sure to spark some heated discussions!
