Intriguing Rookie Of The Year Reportedly Is Possible Trade Target For Red Sox

Boston could look to land a former Rookie of the Year this offseason through a trade

The Boston Red Sox need a new second baseman and could target the 2021 National League Rookie of the Year.

Boston has multiple holes on the roster it needs to fill this offseason and one spot the team will be looking to address is second base. The Red Sox likely will be looking for short-term options with top prospect Marcelo Mayer set to make his big league debut in the not-so-distant future. 

One player the Red Sox reportedly could target this offseason is Cincinnati Reds infielder Jonathan India, according to The Athletic's Jim Bowden.

"India was the (National League) Rookie of the Year in 2021 when he slashed .269/.376/.459 with 21 home runs and 69 RBIS over 150 games," Bowden said. "In 2022, he played in only 103 games due to injuries but still finished with 16 doubles and 10 home runs in 386 at-bats. This past season he again dealt with injuries but managed to play in 119 games, slashing .244/.338/.407 (100 OPS+) with 23 doubles, 17 home runs, 61 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases in 16 attempts.

"His defensive metrics have trended downward but most analysts believe that has more to do with injuries than his ability. India, who turns 27 next month, is arbitration-eligible, while the rest of the Reds' infield is not, making him even more available. The Red Sox, Blue Jays, Nationals, and White Sox are among the teams that could benefit from an upgrade at second base and might look to strike a deal. 

It doesn't sound like the price to acquire India would be very high. His name has been in trade rumors over the last year and it sounds like the Reds are willing to move on from him. Boston has the prospect capital to get a deal done if it sees fit and Red Sox fans should be on the lookout.

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