The Boston Red Sox are well aware that they need to find a replacement for Rafael Devers’ offensive production and the sooner, the better.
Replacing his bat won’t be easy, but with Devers’ contract now off the books, the Red Sox have the financial flexibility to make a move. That’s why CBS Sports’ R.J. Anderson sees Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suárez as a strong fit for Boston.
“Suárez has had several impressive offensive seasons, and it’s especially noteworthy that he’s currently on pace for a career-best OPS+,” Anderson noted. “That’s largely thanks to multiple 10-homer months already this year, including a scorching-hot June.”
Suárez has been outstanding for the Diamondbacks this season, tallying 25 home runs and 68 RBIs as of Monday. He’s already accumulated 2.6 bWAR, and the All-Star break hasn’t even arrived yet.
Anderson credits Suárez’s success to both his raw power over half of his batted balls exceed 95 mph and his hitting approach, which emphasizes lift and pull. With a ground-ball rate under 30% and capable defense at third base, Suárez is one of the most attractive rental hitters available if Arizona decides to sell. Anderson names the Reds, Red Sox, and Angels as potential suitors.
At 33, Suárez would give Boston a much-needed power boost and could step in at third base. With Alex Bregman’s injury status uncertain and his future in Boston possibly short-term, Suárez could be a valuable addition. Even if Bregman returns, the Red Sox could opt to use Suárez as a designated hitter, possibly replacing Masataka Yoshida in that role.