Former MLB GM Urges Red Sox Bold Youth-Centric Roster Pivot

The Boston Red Sox are always a hot topic in the baseball world. This latest discussion centers on a suggestion from former Mets GM Steve Phillips, who wants Boston to make a move for Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams and shift him to second base.

Phillips lays out his reasoning, focusing on Abrams’ offensive production and defensive struggles. He also points out how Abrams could fit in the Red Sox’s roster and hints at the trade dynamics that might help make a deal happen.

Why CJ Abrams to Boston Makes Sense (According to a Former GM)

I’ve watched trade rumors fly for decades, and every so often, a truly unexpected idea pops up. Steve Phillips, who’s sat in the GM chair, just tossed out one of those: bring in CJ Abrams and move him to second base.

It’s a bold suggestion, but Boston’s infield has needed help for a while. Abrams, just 25, put up some eye-catching numbers last season, especially for a guy often labeled as a defense-first player.

He slashed .257/.315/.433, knocked out 19 home runs, and stole 31 bases. That kind of offense would fit nicely in the middle of the Red Sox lineup.

But Phillips is really focused on something else here.

The Defensive Pivot: From Shortstop Struggles to Second Base Success?

Abrams struggled at shortstop last year, no way around it. He racked up 22 errors and finished with a minus-11 in Outs Above Average.

Those numbers don’t exactly scream “gold glove.” Phillips says, “Move him off shortstop, and he’ll improve defensively.”

It’s not just wishful thinking. The switch from shortstop to second base is usually less demanding, and plenty of shortstops have found new life there.

Phillips seems convinced Abrams has the athleticism and arm to handle the move. It could turn a defensive weakness into something much less concerning.

The Trade Landscape: Relationship Value and Boston’s Roster

Trades are rarely just about swapping players. They’re about timing and relationships as much as anything else.

The Athletic’s Jim Bowden says the Nationals are listening to offers for Abrams, who’s under team control through the 2028 season. That kind of contract makes him an even more attractive target.

Paul Toboni and the Red Sox Connection

This is where things get interesting for Boston. Phillips points to the connection between the Red Sox front office and Nationals president Paul Toboni.

Toboni used to work for the Red Sox, which could help smooth out trade talks. Familiar faces can make negotiations a little less bumpy, don’t they?

Boston recently signed veteran utilityman Isiah Kiner-Falefa to a one-year deal. Some might think that fills the infield need, but Phillips argues it doesn’t rule out a bigger move for Abrams.

Kiner-Falefa brings depth and flexibility. Abrams, though, offers a much higher ceiling and could be a long-term answer at second base.

A Splash Acquisition for the Red Sox?

Let’s be honest—Red Sox Nation’s been itching for a “splash” acquisition. Watching other targets, like Brendan Donovan, sign elsewhere just adds to the frustration.

The pressure to make a big move keeps growing. Abrams brings offensive upside and, if he sharpens his defense at second, could be that ‘splash’ everyone keeps hoping for.

The Nationals probably don’t feel any urgency because Abrams has years left on his contract. Still, Boston’s situation feels different.

The need’s obvious, the talent’s there, and the fit at second base just clicks. Plus, those front-office connections? They might actually matter this time.

Trading for CJ Abrams and moving him to second isn’t just some wild idea. It could be the strategic shot in the arm the Sox need to shake up Fenway and cover a few glaring holes at once.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Former MLB General Manager Suggests Bold ‘Pivot’ For Red Sox