REPORT: Red Sox announced signing target in free agency after getting rid of Devers’ contract

 

Zolak and Bertrand react to Rafael Devers’ stunning trade to the Giants

The Boston Red Sox made headlines Sunday night with a bombshell move, trading star slugger Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants — a stunning decision that sent shockwaves through the baseball world.

Just after completing a sweep of the rival Yankees and finally building some positive momentum in a frustrating season, the Red Sox dealt Devers in exchange for a package that included pitchers Kyle Harrison and Jordan Hicks, as well as prospects James Tibbs III and Jose Bello.

The return has been widely criticized as underwhelming. While Tibbs — the 13th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft — offers some upside, none of the incoming players are seen as future stars.

A major driver behind the deal was financial: the Red Sox offloaded the remaining $254 million of Devers’ 10-year, $313 million contract. Combined with other major contracts, like those of Walker Buehler and Lucas Giolito, set to expire after 2025, Boston now has significant financial flexibility heading into the offseason.

While the trade is already being questioned based on the talent Boston received, it will ultimately be judged on how the front office uses the freed-up money to reshape the roster.

So who could the Red Sox target this winter?

Here’s a look at notable players projected to hit free agency after the 2025 season — though some could re-sign with their current clubs:

• Kyle Tucker (RF, Cubs): If he hits the market, Tucker will likely be the top position player available. He’s been a key force in the Cubs’ success this season and is batting .277 with 13 homers and a .893 OPS. Despite Boston’s limited outfield needs, his bat would be a major asset.
• Pete Alonso (1B, Mets): With a glaring hole at first base, Alonso is an ideal fit. He’s crushing it this year with a .293 average, 17 home runs, and a .960 OPS. Though he’ll be 31 in December and could move to DH eventually, his power and production make him a prime target.
• Josh Naylor (1B, Diamondbacks): Another potential option at first, Naylor is following up a career year in 2024 with a solid 2025 season (.300, 9 HR, .827 OPS). His defense is average, but his bat would provide much-needed consistency.
• Dylan Cease (SP, Padres): If the Red Sox want a high-strikeout ace to pair with Garrett Crochet, Cease is one of the best options. Despite an uneven season (2-5, 4.28 ERA), his track record and recent dominant start against the Dodgers show his potential.
• Zac Gallen (SP, Diamondbacks): Gallen is struggling this year (5.19 ERA), but his previous Cy Young-caliber seasons suggest a bounce-back is possible. At 30 in 2026, he could still be a solid addition.
• Framber Valdez (SP, Astros): Though he’ll be 32, Valdez has been a durable and effective starter for Houston, with a strong 2025 campaign underway. His playoff pedigree would also be a plus for a team aiming to contend soon.

In summary, while trading Devers was a massive shake-up, it could set the stage for a busy and pivotal offseason for the Red Sox. Whether it leads to a stronger team or deeper frustration will depend on how wisely Boston invests its newfound financial flexibility.