Red Sox Consider Blockbuster Trade for Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr.

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly exploring a blockbuster trade to acquire superstar outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. from the San Diego Padres. According to a proposal by Sports Illustrated, the Red Sox would send two top-10 prospects, outfielder Wilyer Abreu, and pitcher Kutter Crawford to San Diego in exchange for Tatis, a move that could reshape both franchises.

Tatis, a two-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner, has been one of Major League Baseball’s most dynamic players when healthy. Despite injuries and a suspension in recent years, he boasts a career slash line of .279/.350/.533 with 127 home runs. His 14-year, $340 million contract, which runs through 2034, would require the Red Sox to absorb significant financial commitments starting in 2025.

“This would be a lot. Boston would give up two cheap, proven big-league talents in Abreu and Crawford, plus two elite prospects,” wrote Sports Illustrated’s analyst. “In this scenario, the Red Sox would replace Abreu with a slugger for the future in Tatis.”

Abreu, who won a Gold Glove in his first full MLB season in 2024, hit 15 home runs with a .781 OPS last year. Crawford, a promising pitcher, could benefit from a change of scenery. The Padres, meanwhile, would gain financial flexibility and a pipeline of young talent, including prospects Roman Arias and Richard Fitts, ranked No. 4 and No. 10 in Boston’s farm system, respectively.

The Padres, who fell to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 National League Division Series, are weighing their options as they aim to build a sustainable contender. Trading Tatis would be a significant move, but it could provide the team with the depth needed to compete in the long term.

Tatis, who signed his massive contract before the 2021 season, is owed $20 million or more annually starting in 2025. His addition would give the Red Sox a marquee player to pair with their existing core, potentially accelerating their push for a World Series title.

While the trade remains speculative, it highlights the Red Sox’s willingness to leverage their loaded farm system to acquire elite talent. For the Padres, the deal could mark a strategic pivot toward youth and financial sustainability as they look to remain competitive in a tough National League West division.