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Red Sox Trade Idea With AL East Rival Could Solve First Base Issue

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By TJ French | Last updated May 12, 2025 3:30 PM ET

The Boston Red Sox are having a hard time figuring out what they want to do with the first base position, as there is now a glaring hole at one of the hot corners with the news of Triston Casas missing the entire 2025 season with a tragic ruptured tendon in his knee.

Boston has experimented with Romy Gonzalez playing first, but since he has been on the Injured List, the Red Sox have also given Nick Sogard a shot. However, if the Red Sox aim to contend in the American League East, they will need to find more production at the position.

Their star Rafael Devers also appears not to be comfortable moving over to first, which poses the idea of trading for a player who can slot in immediately.

In a recent trade prediction, the Red Sox make a blockbuster move with the Tampa Bay Rays to acquire first baseman Yandy Diaz. In this deal, the Red Sox will likely have to give up quality prospect capital in outfielder Jhostynxon Garcia and starter Hunter Dobbins.

Yandy Diaz is signed through 2025, but has a team option for 2026. The 2023 All-Star first baseman has put together quality seasons with the Rays, showing the ability to drive in runs, and as a right-handed bat, it gives the Red Sox exactly what they need.

As for Dobbins and Garcia, Dobbins has started four games this season, and over 22.1 innings has just a 2.78 ERA. The 25-year-old starter may be a piece the Red Sox want to keep, but the productivity from the first base position is starting to become concerning, and making a move may be necessary.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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