Red Sox reportedly eyeing lineup upgrades ahead of trade deadline

The Boston Red Sox were expected to be busy at the 2026 MLB trade deadline. However, despite their 22-28 record entering Saturday, the franchise may be looking to add instead of operating as a seller.

Team president Sam Kennedy told WEEI's Greg Hill that the Red Sox are exploring the trade market. Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic provided more details, reporting that the Red Sox are looking to add a right-handed hitter, although certain areas of the lineup are a higher priority.

The Red Sox lineup has been a key factor in their disappointing season. They rank 29th in runs scored (187) and home runs (36) and 26th in OPS (.679).

Boston Red Sox cannot afford to wait to upgrade lineup if they want to salvage season

The Red Sox do have several areas of need. Their outfield is left-hand hitting heavy, making a right-handed bat capable of playing on the grass a viable target.

Such an addition may be further down the list of priorities, given their struggles in the infield. While first baseman Willson Contreras has been the Red Sox's best hitter, they have struggled to get any production at second, third or short. As shortstop Trevor Story is on the Injured List after undergoing hernia surgery, adding an infielder capable of handling short could be atop the Red Sox's wish list.

The Red Sox are looking to claw their way back into the playoff picture after a disastrous start to the season. They may need to upgrade their lineup sooner rather than later if they are going to contend for the postseason.