After weeks of pursuing Pete Alonso as their top first‑base target, the Boston Red Sox shifted gears and pulled off a significant trade to acquire Willson Contreras from the St. Louis Cardinals. According to reporting from ESPN and The New York Post, Boston had been heavily engaged in talks for Alonso, but once those discussions stalled, the club pivoted quickly to Contreras — a move that gives them a proven right‑handed power bat and a steady defensive presence at first base. While Alonso was the splashier name, the Red Sox were more than satisfied to land Contreras, who waived his no‑trade clause to join BostonMLB.
Trade Details: Boston Sends Three Pitchers to St. Louis
The Red Sox acquired Contreras in exchange for pitchers Hunter Dobbins, Yhoiker Fajardo, and Blake Aita, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan and multiple national outlets. St. Louis is also sending Boston $8 million to help offset the remaining salary on Contreras’ contract, which runs through 2027 with an option for 2028. Contreras, a three‑time All‑Star, hit .257 with 20 home runs and 80 RBIs last season and posted a .791 OPS in his first full year as a first basemanSports Illustrated. His transition from catcher to first base has been successful, with strong defensive metrics and above‑average offensive production. For Boston, the deal represents a cost‑effective way to upgrade the middle of their lineup without surrendering top‑tier prospects.
Where This Leaves the Yankees and Mets in Their Power‑Bat Hunt
The ripple effects of this trade extend beyond Boston. Both the Yankees and Mets remain in the market for a major power bat, and Contreras coming off the board narrows the field. The Mets may now pivot toward outfield or DH options. The Yankees, meanwhile, continue to explore upgrades after an inconsistent offensive season and could intensify their pursuit of remaining sluggers on the market. With Contreras gone the competition for the next tier of power hitters is expected to heat up across the league.
Next Moves for the Mets and Yankees
With Alonso now in Baltimore rather than Queens, the Mets still need to find a true middle‑of‑the‑order replacement. The Yankees, meanwhile, are expected to stay aggressive in the trade market as they continue searching for a power bat of their own — a task made even more challenging by the Red Sox jumping in early and landing Willson Contreras.
