Quick Read
- The Boston Red Sox acquired infielder Caleb Durbin from the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday, February 9, 2026.
- Durbin, 25, finished third in the 2025 National League Rookie of the Year voting after hitting .256 with 11 home runs and 53 RBIs.
- Boston sent left-hander Kyle Harrison, infielder David Hamilton, and left-hander Shane Drohan to Milwaukee in the trade.
- The move addresses the Red Sox’s critical need at third base following Alex Bregman’s free agency departure.
BOSTON (Azat TV) – The Boston Red Sox have acquired infielder Caleb Durbin from the Milwaukee Brewers in a significant three-player trade, sources confirmed on Monday, February 9, 2026. This move immediately addresses a critical need at third base for the Red Sox following the departure of veteran Alex Bregman via free agency, and positions Durbin as a potential everyday starter after his impressive rookie season.
Durbin, 25, is coming off a standout 2025 season with the Brewers where he established himself as a versatile second and third baseman. His performance saw him slash .256/.334/.387, accumulate 11 home runs, drive in 53 runs, and steal 18 bases. Notably, he also led the National League with 24 hit-by-pitches, demonstrating his aggressive approach at the plate. These efforts earned him a third-place finish in the National League Rookie of the Year voting, making his acquisition a key strategic move for Boston.
Red Sox Secure Caleb Durbin for Third Base
The Red Sox’s decision to pursue Durbin comes as a direct response to a void in their infield, particularly at third base. With Alex Bregman no longer with the team, the position had been projected to be filled by heralded but injury-plagued prospect Marcelo Mayer. Durbin’s arrival provides a more immediate and proven option, bringing both offensive production and defensive versatility to Boston’s lineup. His ability to play both second and third base offers managerial flexibility, potentially solidifying the left side of the infield.
The trade signals Boston’s intent to remain competitive after a 2025 season that saw them win 89 games and qualify for the playoffs. The team is scheduled to kick off their 2026 season on March 26 against the Cincinnati Reds, with Durbin expected to be a prominent figure in their early lineup.
Key Players Headed to Milwaukee in Durbin Deal
In exchange for Durbin, the Brewers received a package of three players from the Red Sox: left-handed pitcher Kyle Harrison, infielder David Hamilton, and left-handed pitcher Shane Drohan. Kyle Harrison, 24, was a notable piece of the trade, having been acquired by Boston from the San Francisco Giants on June 15 for first baseman and designated hitter Rafael Devers. Last season, Harrison recorded a 4.04 ERA and 38 strikeouts over 35 2/3 innings pitched between Boston and San Francisco.
David Hamilton, primarily a second baseman, played his third season with the Red Sox in 2025. He posted a .198 batting average with six home runs and 19 RBIs across 91 games. Shane Drohan, another left-handed pitcher, completes the three-player return for Milwaukee. This exchange highlights the Brewers’ strategy of acquiring pitching and middle infield depth in return for a promising young bat.
Brewers Continue Roster Reshaping Post-Durbin
For the Milwaukee Brewers, Durbin’s departure marks another significant change to their roster. He is the second player who received votes in the 2025 National League Rookie of the Year race to be traded by the Brewers this offseason, following the December 14 trade of left fielder Isaac Collins to the Kansas City Royals. These moves suggest a continued effort by Milwaukee to reshape their roster, potentially focusing on acquiring prospects or players who fit a specific long-term vision.
Durbin was originally acquired by Milwaukee in a prior deal involving Devin Williams, and quickly cemented his place in their starting lineup. His departure creates a new opening in the Brewers’ infield, which they will look to fill internally or through further transactions as the 2026 season approaches.
The acquisition of Caleb Durbin represents a calculated risk and a clear statement of intent from the Red Sox, prioritizing immediate infield stability and offensive upside over retaining multiple pitching and depth assets. While surrendering three players, including a recent acquisition like Harrison, indicates the high value Boston placed on Durbin’s potential to fill a critical need and contribute significantly to their playoff aspirations.