Sources: Red Sox to acquire Willson Contreras in trade with Cardinals

Dec 21, 2025, 08:03 PM ET

The Boston Red Sox are acquiring first baseman Willson Contreras in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, sources told ESPN’s Jeff Passan on Sunday.

The 33-year-old Contreras, a three-time All-Star, hit .257 with a team-leading 20 home runs and 80 RBIs in 135 games for the Cardinals last season. The former catcher, who had a full no-trade clause in his contract, has two years left and is owed $36.5 million and a $5 million buyout for the 2028 season.

Right-hander Hunter Dobbins is the headliner in the package going back to St. Louis for Contreras, sources told ESPN. The Cardinals also will be receiving minor league pitchers in the deal.