There are a lot of interesting names to watch in the trade and free agent market for the Boston Red Sox this winter, and while they've not signed an outside free agent yet, their next big move could be a top free agent.
That's especially the case after the latest bit of news on their top trade target, Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte.
According to a report from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Diamondbacks have decided not to trade Marte this offseason despite plenty of rumors. The Red Sox are the most impacted team, as they were likely the best fit for the All-Star infielder.
Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte decision is bad news for Red Sox
"Ketel Marte will remain with the Diamondbacks, source tells @TheAthletic," Rosenthal reports. "He will not be traded."
Arizona isn't going to be moving on from Marte this offseason despite trade rumors opening the door to a blockbuster deal.
Boston was likely the favorite for Marte, as Francys Romero of beisbolfr.com reports, the Red Sox were the team that made the most sense in trade talks based on a fit, and return for the Diamondbacks.
While there's no guarantee the Red Sox and Diamondbacks would've agreed to a deal, if Marte was dealt, Boston was one of the most likely landing spots.
More: Diamondbacks get good news on signing Paul Goldschmidt in free agency
Now, the Red Sox will need to pivot to other infield options, with Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette as the clear best fits.
But, with the Philadelphia Phillies emerging as serious suitors for Bichette, Bregman might be the most realistic target for the Red Sox this winter.
A reunion was always a possibility, but now, it's looking more and more like the most obvious outcome this offseason.
Marte would've been an incredible addition to the Red Sox lineup and infield, but now, he's off the trade block, as he's sticking in Arizona with the Diamondbacks pulling him out of the trade market.
More MLB news:
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- No one is talking about this team as a sleeper in Cody Bellinger's free agency market
- Giants linked to 296-HR free agent slugger as potential signing
- Phillies have 3 teams competing for J.T. Realmuto's signature in free agency
- Tigers urged to sign 1 or 2 future Hall of Famers for Detroit reunion
- Rangers' rotation pitched as needing this free agent signing