After completing a trade for Wilson Contreras over the weekend, the Boston Red Sox and St. Louis Cardinals have discussed a trade that would send Brendan Donovan to Boston. Donovan is likely to be the next name traded by St. Louis as they look to add more young pieces as they enter yet another rebuild. Boston is looking to add another impact bat to their lineup, and Donovan is a cost-controllable option who’s under team control.
Will Boston Land Donovan?
After a flurry of offseason trades, the Red Sox would need to part with several top prospects to acquire Donovan. With the Seattle Mariners and San Francisco Giants considered frontrunners for Donovan, Boston must present a compelling package to stay in the race. If Alex Bregman’s contract demands prove unrealistic, Donovan becomes an even more attractive option.
Donovan would complement Trevor Story and Roman Anthony, providing the Red Sox with a reliable on-base threat. His career-low on-base percentage is .342 (2024), with a peak of .394 in 2022. Donovan offers an above-average bat and strong defensive versatility, primarily at second base but also on the left side of the infield and in the outfield.
Boston is likely to continue pursuing Alex Bregman to strengthen the left side of their infield, or pivot to a free agent such as Bo Bichette, who is reportedly open to moving to second base. Given the number of prospects the Red Sox have already traded, the Mariners and Giants may ultimately present more competitive offers for Donovan.
Boston Needs To Stay On The Gas
The Red Sox have addressed several roster needs, yet significant work remains if they hope to contend in the competitive American League East. With considerable payroll flexibility and many top free-agent hitters still unsigned, the team remains well-positioned to make further improvements. Their interest in re-signing Alex Bregman continues, and they could also emerge as a dark horse candidate for Bo Bichette.
In reality, the Red Sox have numerous strategic options to pursue this winter. The pitching staff appears settled, barring any major trades, allowing the front office to focus primarily on upgrading the lineup. Catcher JT Realmuto could be a target if the team is willing to offer a three- or four-year deal. Given their current roster situation, the Phillies may opt out of that bidding and allocate resources elsewhere.
Further roster moves for the Red Sox are most likely to occur in early January. As Christmas approaches, free agents show little urgency to sign, preferring to wait out the deliberately slow-moving market.
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