​The Boston Red Sox reportedly explored a blockbuster option last summer, eyeing a five-time All-Star shortstop and potential two-time World Series MVP for the 2025 season. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, talks occurred between Boston and an American League West club about a trade for a player who has repeatedly proven his elite performance. However, the discussions never progressed beyond a few conversations between the two teams.
Rosenthal noted that several clubs, including Boston, asked the Texas Rangers about Seager during the offseason, with knowledge of the conversations suggesting the Celtics would have needed to be overwhelmed to pull off a deal. The Rangers’ stance was clear: they would require a substantial return for Seager.
In hindsight, the Red Sox might have dodged a bullet. Seager’s resume is highly impressive, but he has struggled to stay healthy, having spent three separate stints on the injured list during the 2026 season. Even so, his left-handed bat could have been an upgrade over Trevor Story, who also battles injuries. It’s important to remember that acquiring Seager would have entailed a significant contract for Boston, especially if the Rangers had not absorbed a large portion of Seager’s salary. Seager signed a 10-year, $325 million deal with Texas, which runs through the 2031 season, by which time he will be 37 years old.
Looking ahead, the landscape of potential trades remains complex. There are ongoing debates about a Dodgers–Yankees clash for Tarik Skubal, and speculation about how a deal with Byron Buxton might affect the Phillies. Meanwhile, any deal would need to consider how the Red Sox could balance long-term value with current roster needs, given the financial commitments tied to players like Seager.
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