Multi-Time All-Star Reportedly Could Be Option To Solve Red Sox's Infield Issue
Who will play second base for the Boston Red Sox in 2024?
The position caused Boston some headaches in 2023. Boston had the luxury of starting Trevor Story at second base in 2022 when Xander Bogaerts manned shortstop. With Story injured and then back at shortstop, there was a glaring hole at second base throughout the season.
Boston tried to fill it with Christian Arroyo, Enmanuel Valdez, Pablo Reyes, and Luis Urías at points this season but will go back to the drawing board this offseason. Valdez could take over the position full-time, but his defense must significantly improve. One external option that could make sense reportedly is Toronto Blue Jays All-Star Whit Merrifield, according to MassLive.com's Chris Cotillo.
"Whit Merrifield, who turns 35 in January and can also play the outfield, is the top available free agent second baseman and would make a lot of sense for the Red Sox on a short-term deal," Cotillo said. "Elvis Andrus, Adam Frazier, Tony Kemp, and Jonathan Schoop are among the veteran options and the Sox could look to get creative by moving someone like Gio Urshela or Nick Ahmed from another position to second. The trade market boasts options like Minnesota’s Jorge Polanco, Cincinnati’s Jonathan India, and the Angels’ Brandon Drury.
"Again, a long-term addition at the position seems unlikely considering Mayer is coming. But the Red Sox should be on the lookout for a clear upgrade, at least for 2024, and don’t have anyone in the organization who projects as an everyday starter."
Merrifield is a three-time All-Star and impressed for the Blue Jays this season. The 34-year-old slashed .272/.318/.382 with 11 home runs, 67 RBIs, and 26 stolen bases in 145 games played while earning his third All-Star nod. He's a career .284 who could also be very cheap this offseason.
The 34-year-old currently is projected to land a deal for roughly two years and just under $13 million, according to Spotrac. A deal like this is very affordable for Boston and would not hinder some of the club's prospects coming up through the pipeline. Plus, it would allow the Red Sox to spend big elsewhere. A move sounds like a no-brainer.
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