Suárez’s price dropped to a surprisingly affordable $15 million, yet Philadelphia chose not to pursue him. His inconsistency at the plate may have been a factor, but the decision has sparked debate over whether the team could have strengthened its roster for 2026 with minimal financial risk.

MLB analyst Tim Kelly recently argued that the Phillies “choked” by not following up on Suárez after his market value fell. “As things stand now, Rob Thomson may very well be forced to have Alec Bohm — making $10.2 million in his final year of arbitration eligibility — hit cleanup for a team with World Series aspirations,” Kelly said.

He added, “What we learned Sunday evening is they could have had Eugenio Suárez hitting cleanup and playing third base on Opening Day for $15 million.” While Suárez isn’t perfect, his two 49-homer seasons make him a dangerous bat, one that might have transformed Philadelphia’s lineup immediately.

Is Alec Bohm a long-term solution at third base?

Even with Suárez sidelined, the Phillies still face uncertainty at third base as Evan Macy of PhillyVoice notes that Alec Bohm — along with Adolis García and José Alvarado — may not be part of Philadelphia’s plans beyond 2026.

The Phillies may still make a trade or find a long-term option before or during the 2026 season. Until then, Philadelphia will open the year with Bohm or internal alternatives at third, leaving fans to wonder how the lineup could have looked with Suárez in place.

“I’m told the Pirates offered the same AAV on Eugenio Suarez ($15 million), were willing to go higher, as well as add another year,” Jason Mackey of the Post-Gazette Sports wrote on X, making it clear that Pittsburgh had been pursuing Suárez for some time, as previously reported.

According to Mackey, Suárez’s decision to ultimately sign with the Reds came down to familiarity with the organization and the potential to secure a bigger contract down the line. “Sounds like his choice came down to a better ballpark fit, familiarity and a chance to cash in next year with a big season.”

Could the 2026 lockout affect Suarez’s future?

It’s still uncertain whether the lockout will actually happen, as has been predicted for several months, but Suarez could be seriously impacted by it. At least his $15 million for the 2026 season is guaranteed, but in situations like this, everything in MLB could come to a halt.

If a lockout occurs in December 2026, the transaction freeze would likely force Suárez to decide on his 2027 option early without knowing the future league rules. A work stoppage could also delay his 2027 paychecks and eat into the season he needs to prove he is still a top-tier slugger.

In any case, the Reds not only have Suarez locked in, a player who already knows the team, but they can also wait patiently if this type of situation occurs in the league. A lockout can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how quickly the owners and the players’ union can find common ground.

“Suarez is likely to see most of his at-bats at DH, also playing some first base and third base. Sal Stewart will have a similar role, while Spencer Steer will play some outfield and be used in more of a utility role,” Mark Feinsand wrote on X.

Suárez had a strong 2025 season, but some MLB teams appeared hesitant due to the slugger’s age. Seattle also chose not to retain him, largely because several prospects needed playing time, and with Suárez occupying a position, that opportunity became limited.

Suárez could once again give the Reds what they need

It’s worth remembering that Suárez’s 2019 season with Cincinnati was one of several standout years he had with the club. That year, he hit 49 home runs with a .271 batting average, producing 87 runs, 156 hits, and 103 RBIs. Three of his five best home-run seasons have come with the Reds.

“The Cincinnati Reds, starving for power, haven’t had a player hit more than 25 HRs in a single season since Eugenio Suarez’s departure after 2021. Suarez had 30 homers alone by the All-Star break last year. He has hit at least 25 homers in seven of his last eight full seasons,” Bob Nightengale wrote.

MLB insider Jeff Passan labeled Suárez the “best bat left on the market” in his report on the $15 million deal he signed with Cincinnati. One of the most appealing aspects of the contract is that Suárez will have a mutual option with the Reds for the 2027 season, depending on how he performs this year.

The report came from Adam Jude during an appearance on Foul Territory. Jude noted that Suarez would be an ideal fit for the Mariners but emphasized that the organization is reluctant to block its top prospects. “He [Suárez] checks all the boxes, an amazing clubhouse guy,” Jude said. “They [the Mariners] have a lot of young, talented infielders coming, knocking at the door.”

“They don’t want to block those guys,” Jude added, specifically pointing to Emerson as a prime candidate to take over at third base, a factor that could be one of the main obstacles to Suarez returning to Seattle next season.

With or without Suarez, the Mariners’ offseason hasn’t gone well

According to part of Adam Jude’s report, the Mariners have not had a strong offseason. The situation appears to go beyond prospects and the Suarez case, as the beat writer notes that while the team is still looking for players on the market, the roster currently feels incomplete.

“There’s some bubbling frustration brewing with Mariners fans,” Jude said, adding that rumors surrounding Brendan Donovan continue to circulate but that nothing serious has materialized so far. He did note, however, that the Josh Naylor contract was an important step for the organization.

“Need to know how this is possibly a B offseason. They’ve subtracted more than they’ve added. They’re short two bats and at this moment they’re worse than they were when the year ended. It’s a D+ for me,” Mariners fan Ben Sansaver wrote on X (@sansaver23).

After missing out on Alex Bregman, Boston has explored multiple alternatives, including trade scenarios involving infield depth. However, as spring training approaches and asking prices remain steep, the free-agent market, including Suárez, is beginning to draw renewed attention from the front office.

That shift was highlighted when Suárez appeared in a recent roster projection by MassLive’s Chris Cotillo, who suggested Boston could see unexpected value in the slugger. “Running parallel to all of that is what seems to be a slow market for Suárez, who isn’t a great defender and strikes out too often but did mash 49 homers last year,” Cotillo wrote.

He also added, “A rival agent speculated this week that he thinks Suárez’s deal is going to come in much lower than initial projections suggested, meaning the Red Sox might see the value in getting the slugger on a very palatable deal.”

Suárez’s power

Despite defensive concerns, Suárez’s offensive profile stands out. He split the 2025 season between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners, earning his second career All-Star nod while delivering elite power production.

Across 159 games, Suárez hit .228 with 49 home runs and 118 RBIs. Had those numbers been posted in Boston, he would have led the team in both categories by a comfortable margin, instantly upgrading the lineup’s middle-of-the-order threat.

Boston keeps multiple paths open

While Craig Breslow and the Red Sox front office continue to explore trade possibilities, no deal appears imminent. With the competitive balance tax already a factor, flexibility will matter as much as talent.

As roster construction enters its final stages, the Red Sox may find that their answer at third base lies not in a blockbuster deal, but in a calculated free-agent move.

Traded midseason from the Arizona Diamondbacks back to the Seattle Mariners, a franchise familiar with his profile and production, he reminded the league why his power remains among the most bankable commodities in today’s game.

After Jim Bowden shed light on Eugenio Suárez’s stalled market as 2026 spring training approaches, front offices are now recalibrating rosters and payrolls. The question is no longer whether teams will pursue Suárez, but how aggressive they’re willing to be as the market begins to take shape across MLB.

Suárez’s suitor

According to Jon Heyman, the Mariners remain the most logical fit, largely due to comfort and timing. Despite Seattle’s deep farm system, the organization has been hesitant to commit long-term money, a stance that could align perfectly with Suárez’s market if flexibility becomes a priority. “I’m still going to say the Mariners first, but they have so many great prospects,” Heyman said, emphasizing Seattle’s preference for shorter commitments.

Heyman also pointed to Suárez’s familiarity with the clubhouse and recent production as deciding factors. “If he’s willing to do a one-year deal, they like him… Obviously, close to 50 home runs,” he added.

Which other teams could realistically enter the sweepstakes?

Beyond Seattle, Heyman identified two additional clubs with clear offensive needs. The Pittsburgh Pirates, still searching for middle-of-the-order reliability, were mentioned as a strong secondary option given their lack of proven power depth. “Pirates still need a hitter, so I’m going to put them for number two for Suárez,” Heyman said.

The Cincinnati Reds also surfaced as a familiar and logical destination. Suárez spent six seasons in Cincinnati earlier in his career, and the club’s ongoing search for consistent run production could open the door to a reunion. “I think they still need a little more offense, so I could see Suarez for them as well,” Heyman concluded.

Among the names circulating, Eugenio Suárez, a two-time All-Star and one of the game’s premier power hitters, has emerged as a top candidate to fill that void. The Phillies are reportedly seriously considering Suárez as they look to maintain their competitive edge in the NL East.

Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer highlighted the strategic fit: “The heat is on the Phillies to do something in response, and signing Suárez is arguably the best play they can make. He’s one of the best pure power hitters in the sport, so he and Citizens Bank Park would figure to be a dream matchup,” Rymer wrote.

Suárez’s 2025 season was a power surge

Suárez finished the 2025 MLB season with 49 home runs and over 120 RBIs across 159 games split between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Seattle Mariners. On April 26, he became the 19th player in MLB history to hit four home runs in a single game against the Atlanta Braves, a historic performance despite a team loss.

Career achievements make him an attractive option

Since debuting with the Detroit Tigers in 2014, Suárez has compiled 325 home runs, 1,434 hits, and a .240 career batting average over more than 5,800 at-bats with the Tigers, Cincinnati Reds, Mariners, and Diamondbacks.

Multiple 30-homer seasons and clutch performances highlight his experience and ability to make an immediate impact, making him a logical target for the Phillies as they aim to rebound after Bader’s departure.

Speaking on Foul Territory, Bowden revealed why Suárez hasn’t received offers: “I talked to a GM this morning from a team that isn’t a non-contender. I asked him, ‘Why don’t you sign Suárez, put him in the lineup, and trade him at midseason for a prospect?’”

The GM told Bowden it wouldn’t be a smart move. “His response to me was, ‘Look at what he did last year, 49 home runs, and when we got to the trade deadline, there wasn’t a market for him. Arizona barely got a decent return.’”

Suárez drawing little interest

According to what the GM told Bowden, Suárez is not drawing real interest around the league. “They’re not pursuing him,” the anonymous GM said during the phone call about the Venezuelan third baseman’s situation.

Bowden added that, in his view, Suárez is not an ideal defensive third baseman for most MLB teams, and he hasn’t logged enough time at first base to be prioritized over younger players or others with more experience at the position.

“Believe it or not, a 49-homers guy doesn’t have a market right now,” Bowden said, highlighting the difficult spot Suárez finds himself in at age 34. Last season marked the second time in his career he hit 49 home runs, the first coming in 2019.

Bowden suggested Boston or Pittsburgh as potential fits, though he noted the Pirates are unlikely to spend, especially on a player like Suárez, and added that a designated hitter role could also be an option.

The 34-year-old Eugenio Suarez of the Seattle Mariners was one of the prominent names linked to Boston. Suarez hit 49 home runs last season but posted a low .298 on-base percentage and has well-documented defensive struggles at the hot corner. While his bat could bolster Boston’s offense, the team seems to weigh overall balance more heavily.

According to Chris Cotillo of MassLive, the Red Sox currently show minimal traction on a deal for Suarez. “Another Red Sox update: As of the weekend, very little traction when it came to Eugenio Suarez,” Cotillo wrote on X, suggesting that other options may be prioritized.

Could Boston pivot to trades for infield help?

The Red Sox are reportedly exploring alternative options via the trade market. Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes has emerged as a potential candidate, offering a blend of defensive stability and offensive contribution that may align better with Boston’s strategy.

Home-run power is needed, but defensive reliability and limiting strikeouts are higher priorities for the front office. While no deals appear imminent, front-office discussions indicate that Suarez is far from a top priority at the moment.

According to The Athletic‘s Ken Rosenthal, the Pittsburgh Pirates have emerged as contenders for Suarez’s services. Rosenthal suggests that Suarez has the deciding vote on where he wants to play next season, a scenario that could present challenges for the Pirates.

Amidst significant anticipation surrounding Suarez’s next move, the Pirates join a competitive field of franchises vying for his talents in the upcoming season and Rosenthal also revealed that if Suarez would desire to go to a bigger franchise, they would be left behind.

The decision now rests with Suarez. With the Boston Red Sox reportedly in fierce competition for him, his next destination remains uncertain, following an impressive performance last season.

Potential suitors for Eugenio Suarez

The Pirates are not alone in expressing interest in Suarez. Several other teams are reportedly in the mix, looking to secure the power-hitting infielder. Among them are the Boston Red Sox, who have already been linked to Suarez.

The Seattle Mariners, hoping for a reunion after his strong finish in both the regular season and the playoffs, have reportedly also shown interest in bringing Suarez back into their fold.

Additionally, the Toronto Blue Jays have emerged as contenders in this fierce bidding war alongside the Red Sox, Mariners, and Pirates, keen to bolster their lineup after missing out on top targets like Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker.

Suarez’s performance last season

Starting with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Suarez quickly became a sought-after presence. After moving to Seattle, he demonstrated his prowess as one of MLB’s top hitters during the 2025 season.

• Games Played: 159
• Home Runs: 49
• RBIs: 118
• Batting Average: .228
• OPS: .824
• Runs Scored: 91

Suarez, who began last season with the Arizona Diamondbacks before concluding with the Seattle Mariners, is reportedly attracting interest from the Toronto Blue Jays following the signings of Bichette and Tucker, according to .

Given these developments, the Blue Jays present a compelling option for Suarez. Despite transitioning mid-season, he delivered a standout performance last year, which would be invaluable for Toronto’s ambitions.

The Boston Red Sox have also emerged as contenders for Suarez, amid competition from other league teams. His potential impact makes him a key target for the Blue Jays, especially after missing out on another marquee signing like Tucker to the Dodgers.

Suarez’s potential suitors

As one of the marquee names pursued by several MLB teams, the options for Suarez’s new team are dwindling as the offseason progresses, as Tucker and Bichette with the Mets are already out of the conversation.

The Seattle Mariners are considering a reunion with Suarez, making them one of the more discussed franchises in pursuit of his talents. Additionally, the Pittsburgh Pirates have reportedly shown interest.

With the Blue Jays actively pursuing Suarez, they have an opportunity to make a significant roster enhancement, joining top talents like Kazuma Okamoto and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.