Boston's 2026 plan hinges on three moves: re-sign Alex Bregman, trade for Joe Ryan using outfield depth, and sign Pete Alonso to shore up the right side of the infield. They'd gain a steady, powerful middle order, improved rotation depth, and a clearer path to sustained contention after the Wild Card setback.

The moves hinge on Casas's continued development and Duran's speed providing value in trades while keeping the farm system intact. If Boston lands these targets, contender status becomes a realistic goal rather than a projection.

Boston is adding Nathaniel Lowe to stabilize a thin 1B spot, a move aimed at turning mid‑August into a playoff‑driven push. Lowe, who was designated for assignment by Washington after a mixed season, brings 16 homers, 17 doubles and 68 RBIs while posting Gold Glove defense. His lefty bat and power profile give Boston a credible 1B option, especially against right‑handers, and could unlock productive RBI opportunities behind a lineup that has struggled at times at the position.

With Triston Casas sidelined, Lowe could enter a regular role and provide a steady floor if he recaptures his best swing. If Lowe can approach his prior power and improve plate discipline, he becomes a solid late‑season fantasy asset in mixed leagues and a meaningful contributor for the Red Sox as they chase a contending finish. Fantasy managers should monitor how quickly Lowe lands in the lineup, his splits, and how Boston balances Casas’ timeline with Lowe’s value at first base.

Nathaniel Lowe is headed to the Boston Red Sox on a prorated major‑league minimum deal, giving Boston a veteran left‑handed bat to stabilize the first‑base mix after Triston Casas’ season‑ending knee injury.

Lowe, who spent four solid seasons with the Rangers and was with Washington prior to this move, brings steady production against righties (.MVP-ish power割) and a tracked power spike against right-handed pitching (14 homers in 337 PAs this year). In Fenway, he could join a left‑side platoon role that currently features Abraham Toro and Romy Gonzalez, providing Boston with a meaningful floor while giving upside if he recaptures form. The Sox rank among the league’s run leaders and now have another veteran bat to lean on as they chase a playoff push.

Beyond Lowe, the piece notes internal depth with Kristian Campbell advancing at Triple‑A, Vaughn Grissom continuing to show upside, and top prospect Jhostynxon Garcia posting big power numbers in the minors. The Nationals, who designated Lowe for assignment, will owe most of the remainder of his $10.3 million salary this year, and the move carries arbitration sensitivity for 2026. The deal tightens Boston’s 1B platoon and preserves flexibility for the postseason chase.