Five First Basemen Red Sox Could Target Before Trade Deadline

Chaos is the currency of the deadline, and the Boston Red Sox are one of several clubs spending big.

Abraham Toro and Romy Gonzalez have held down first base admirably since Triston Casas was sidelined for the season in early May. They are hitting .298 with 10 HR and 48 RBI combined, and Gonzalez has been one of baseball’s best against left-handed pitching (.406, 4 HR, 16 RBI).

But Craig Breslow could still opt to add a veteran first baseman at the deadline, especially with a pennant push in his sights.

Here are a few names the Red Sox could go after.

Ryan O’Hearn (.286, 11 HR, 34 RBI)
The Baltimore Orioles first baseman is putting together a breakout year, showing better command of the strike zone while maintaining his power numbers. He has hit double-digit home runs with a batting average over .300 and an OPS north of .870.

Josh Naylor (.294, 11 HR, 58 RBI)
One of the more well-rounded hitters on the market, Naylor’s offensive consistency makes him a potential fit. He was “mentioned more than any other position player by execs” in a poll of players most likely to be dealt conducted by The Athletic, so he will be highly sought after. Naylor’s on-base skills and extra-base pop could slot nicely into the heart of Boston’s lineup.

Jake Burger (.228, 11 HR, 35 RBI)
While Burger’s 2025 numbers have not popped, his upside remains real. The corner infielder has raw power and a quick bat, capable of launching mistakes to all fields. His plate discipline has always been a concern, but his positional versatility and slugging potential keep him on the radar. That said, Burger was placed on the injured list July 16 with a left quad strain, which could scare off suitors.

Carlos Santana (.232, 11 HR, 41 RBI)
At 39, Santana is not putting up eye-popping stats, but his value lies beyond the box score. He brings veteran experience, defensive steadiness and a track record of leadership that could benefit a young Red Sox clubhouse. As a short-term rental on the decline, it is unlikely he would cost much in return.

Nathaniel Lowe (.227, 14 HR, 61 RBI)
In his first season with the Washington Nationals, Lowe has not matched the form that earned him a Silver Slugger and Gold Glove with the Texas Rangers. Could he return to form in a playoff race? His blend of glove work and previous offensive production might appeal to teams seeking upside. If the Nationals are open to talks, the Red Sox could be a logical suitor.

Although Boston’s internal options have held up well, the market for veteran first basemen is wide open. If the right player becomes available, the Red Sox could pounce — aiming to fortify a lineup with October ambitions.