Overview
- Mayer says he is fully recovered from August wrist surgery, added roughly 10 pounds at the team’s request, and plans to be a full participant in spring training.
- He played third base in nearly 30 games in 2025 and defended well, but his rookie line over 136 plate appearances was a .674 OPS with limited power.
- Free agent Eugenio Suárez is a clear external option after a 49-homer, 118-RBI season, though his high strikeout rate and recent defensive issues temper the fit.
- Boston retains low-cost depth at third with Nate Eaton, Romy Gonzalez, Nick Sogard and Vinny Capra, with prospect Mikey Romero viewed as depth rather than a starter.
- The infield search follows Alex Bregman’s move to the Cubs and Bo Bichette’s deal with the Mets, leaving Mayer penciled in for Opening Day as trade avenues narrow.