Editor’s note: With the Red Sox likely selling before the trade deadline, we’re examining the cases for and against parting ways with their most likely trade candidates.
We’ve already covered closer Aroldis Chapman. Next up: first baseman Willson Contreras.
There hasn’t been much for Boston Red Sox fans to cheer about during their abysmal 2026 season. But if you’re looking for bright spots, Willson Contreras is undoubtedly the first that comes to mind.
The Red Sox acquired Contreras in an offseason trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, giving them a much-needed right-handed bat and a huge defensive upgrade at first base. When Alex Bregman left in free agency for the Chicago Cubs, the hope was that Contreras could at least replace his offensive production.
He has far exceeded those expectations.
Contreras is enjoying a career year at the plate, slashing .289/.384/.542 with a team-leading 16 homers and 44 RBI through 71 games played. The 34-year-old veteran’s .926 OPS ranks ninth in Major League Baseball (fourth among first basemen).
For a club that has often looked lifeless, Contreras has been a rare source of energy. His fiery attitude and intense passion have been a breath of fresh air, and he has become a vocal clubhouse leader despite having only been with the organization for a few months.
There’s a real chance Contreras’ Red Sox stint won’t last much longer. As Boston’s losses continue to pile up, all signs point toward the organization selling off pieces ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline. Contreras has immense trade value as a veteran right-handed slugger, making him a prime candidate to be moved. It’s worth noting, however, that he has a no-trade clause and would have to approve of any deal.
Should the Red Sox trade Contreras for a haul? Below, we’ll weigh the cases for and against such a deal and share our final verdict:
The case for trading Willson Contreras
Contreras is a veteran right-handed slugger in the midst of a career year, and he’s under team control through 2027 with a $20 million club option for 2028. With his production and team-friendly contract, he’ll be worth more on the market than any of Boston’s other realistic trade chips.
At 34 years old, Contreras probably isn’t the player you want to build around if you’re thinking long term. Crazier things have happened, but there hasn’t been any indication that this Red Sox team can retool and become a contender again next season. There’s a valid argument for cashing in on Contreras’ sky-high value now, because it may not be the same around this time next year.
Jordan Godfree-Imagn ImagesJordan Godfree-Imagn Images
Willson Contreras is under contract at least through 2027 with a \$20M club option for 2028.
The case against trading Willson Contreras
The Red Sox have holes all over their roster. There’s no need to create another one at first base, especially when that first baseman is far and away your best hitter and he’s under contract for at least one more season.
Yes, trading Contreras would likely bring in a haul of prospects, but doing so would also remove the only real offensive threat from a lineup that ranks dead last in runs scored. Boston would be stuck looking for a replacement in free agency, and the 2027 class isn’t exactly flooded with intriguing options. It’s Yandy Diaz, then a bunch of significant downgrades.
Verdict
No, the Red Sox shouldn’t trade Willson Contreras this summer.
Unless the Red Sox are punting on the next couple of seasons and are committed to a full-on rebuild, trading Contreras would be foolish. He’s been the one consistent, feared hitter in Boston’s anemic lineup, and he’ll be part of the solution for 2027 and perhaps 2028. Moving on from him would indicate the club has no intention of building a competitive club for either of those seasons.
First base had been a black hole for the Red Sox in recent years. Now, their first baseman happens to be their best position player. There’s no need to go backwards. Instead, sell off players on expiring contracts and players at positions where there’s a surplus. Don’t make a move that will leave you scrambling to fill another gaping hole.