The Perfect Red Sox Trade Target Just Became Available

New Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow has a pretty big to-do list this offseason, much of which revolves around revamping the Boston Red Sox's pitching staff. The starting lineup could also use some adjustments, especially in the middle infield, which was an absolute disaster for the Red Sox last year.

While Trevor Story is set to reclaim his starting shortstop job (assuming he can stay healthy), Boston could still use an everyday second baseman. The Red Sox have already been linked to free agents such as Whit Merrifield, but fortunately for them the perfect trade candidate just became available.

According to Bob Nightengale's latest report from MLB's GM Meetings, the Cincinnati Reds are expected to trade second baseman Jonathan India this offseason.

The Reds have apparently soured on India, who has fallen off a bit since winning NL Rookie of the Year honors in 2021. He's missed significant time with injuries in each of the last two seasons and his production has suffered, as his OPS has fallen from .835 as a rookie to .727 over the past two years combined.

Even if India never replicates his outstanding rookie campaign, he's still a solid everyday player. He batted .244/.338/.407 with 17 homers and 14 steals in 119 games last season, so he still has 20/20 potential if he stays healthy. He's also heading into his age-27 season, so he's in his prime and still has time to bounce back.

With India heading into his first year of arbitration, he's about to get substantially more expensive. He's still under team control for three more seasons, however, which makes him an attractive long-term option.

With the prospect capital to acquire India, Boston should absolutely consider trading for him. He would be a considerable upgrade at the keystone for the Red Sox, whose second basemen combined to bat just .240/.286/.376 last year with 14 homers and 9 stolen bases. As a right-handed hitter, India would also likely benefit from playing half his games at Fenway Park.

This move makes a ton of sense for Boston, but time will tell if Breslow feels the same way.

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