The Boston Red Sox have made strategic moves to strengthen their infield by acquiring infielder Caleb Durbin from the Milwaukee Brewers. This trade, first reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, sees the Red Sox send a three-player package to Milwaukee, which includes left-handed pitchers Kyle Harrison and Shane Drohan, as well as infielder David Hamilton. In addition to Durbin, Boston is also adding infielder Andruw Monasterio, catcher/infielder Anthony Seigler, and a Competitive Balance Round B pick, according to Will Sammon from The Athletic.
Caleb Durbin, who will turn 26 soon, is expected to play a significant role in Boston’s infield, likely taking over at third base. However, he is also capable of playing second base, providing flexibility as the Red Sox may opt for Marcelo Mayer at the hot corner for defensive purposes. Durbin recently finished third in the National League Rookie of the Year voting in 2025, boasting a solid batting line of .256/.334/.387 with 11 home runs, 25 doubles, and 18 steals in 24 attempts. His defensive skills are also commendable, with above-average ratings in Defensive Runs Saved (5) and Outs Above Average (2).
While Durbin may not be the major middle-of-the-order bat that fans have been hoping for, he represents a cost-effective option with five years of club control and two minor league options remaining. His right-handed batting profile, which includes a pull percentage slightly above the league average, should complement the dimensions of Fenway Park, particularly its iconic Green Monster. His arrival is part of the Red Sox’s broader strategy to enhance run prevention and reduce their strikeout rate, which was among the highest in the league last season.
As for the rest of the infield, if Durbin settles in at third base, second base duties are likely to be shared between the left-handed hitting Mayer and righty Romy Gonzalez. Utility player Isiah Kiner-Falefa, recently signed, adds depth by being capable of backing up both of those positions as well as shortstop.
Monasterio, now joining the Red Sox, could also be an option at second or third base. He has demonstrated effective hitting against left-handed pitching, posting a career average of .255/.352/.375 against them. Last season, he had a breakout performance over 135 plate appearances, hitting .270/.319/.437 with four home runs. He also brings valuable experience, with nearly 3,500 professional innings at shortstop, providing an additional safety net for the oft-injured Trevor Story.
With these acquisitions, the Red Sox are not only bolstering their roster but are also positioning themselves for a more competitive season ahead. The infusion of versatility and depth across the infield bodes well for the team’s prospects moving forward.