Red Sox Reportedly Pursuing All-Star Infielder As Possible Upgrade At Second Base

It sounds like the Red Sox are looking to bring a multi-time All-Star into the fold

One of the Boston Red Sox's biggest positions of need is second base.

It has been mentioned on multiple occasions already at this point in the offseason that the Red Sox will be pursuing help in the middle infield. Last year, second base was a revolving door for the club. It sounds like the club will be looking for a more steady option for next season. 

The free agent market has been extremely slow so far, but that doesn't mean the club isn't doing its due diligence. Boston hasn't made a move yet to help the infield but reportedly has checked in with former Kansas City Royals and Toronto Blue Jays All-Star Whit Merrifield about a possible signing, according to The Athletic's Jen McCaffrey and Chad Jennings.

"According to two people with knowledge of the situation, the Red Sox have considered Whit Merrifield and touched base with his representatives," McCaffrey and Jennings said. "Still, talks have been largely preliminary with no current traction toward a deal, though that could change as the market begins to move and the Red Sox settle on a more definitive direction."

Merrifield would be a very solid upgrade for the Red Sox. The 34-year-old impressed last season with the Blue Jays and hit 11 home runs, drove in 67 runs, stole 26 bases, and slashed .272/.318/.382 in 145 games played. Merrifield is a three-time All-Star -- including last season -- and won't cost much in free agency due to his age. Plus, Boston likely could land him on a short-term deal which could then pave the way directly to top prospect Marcelo Mayer making the jump to the big leagues.

A move certainly makes sense.

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