Red Sox Trade Luis Guerrero to Rays, DFA Nathaniel Lowe Amid Offseason Moves

The Boston Red Sox made a notable roster move on Tuesday, sending prospect Luis Guerrero to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for infielder Tristan Gray. As part of the transaction, the Red Sox designated first baseman Nathaniel Lowe for assignment, opening up roster space while continuing to adjust their lineup this offseason.

Lowe, a left-handed hitter with a seven-year MLB career, has played for four teams, including the Texas Rangers, Washington Nationals, and Red Sox. He produced his best numbers in 2022, hitting .302 with 27 home runs, 76 RBIs, a .851 OPS, and a 3.3 WAR, showcasing his ability as a middle-of-the-order contributor.

After stints with Washington and being released on waivers, Lowe signed a one-year deal with Boston in August 2025. Over 34 games with the Red Sox, he hit .280 with a .790 OPS, adding 18 home runs and 84 RBIs combined across teams during the season. Despite solid production, Boston felt he could have a more impactful role elsewhere given their depth at first base.

The move reflects Boston’s broader strategy this offseason: leveraging roster flexibility, exploring strategic trades, and considering future acquisitions, including potential interest in returning former slugger Kyle Schwarber to the lineup.

1. Nathaniel Lowe’s Career and Status

Nathaniel Lowe has built a reputation as a reliable left-handed bat capable of providing power and consistency. His standout season in 2022 with the Rangers demonstrated his offensive potential, hitting over .300 and producing more than 25 home runs. Lowe’s performance dipped slightly after moving to Washington, but he remained a productive option for teams seeking depth at first base. His signing with Boston in August gave him a late-season opportunity to contribute, hitting .280 and maintaining a respectable OPS in limited action. By designating Lowe for assignment, the Red Sox have placed him on waivers. If unclaimed, he will have the freedom to sign with any MLB team, likely attracting interest from clubs in need of a proven left-handed bat and corner infield flexibility. Despite being a DFA, Lowe’s 2025 performance shows he can still contribute at the major league level, making him a viable target for teams looking to bolster their offense or add depth at first base.

2. Luis Guerrero and Tristan Gray Trade

The trade sending Luis Guerrero to Tampa Bay brings Tristan Gray to Boston, an infielder who can provide versatility and depth in the middle of the diamond. Guerrero, a prospect with potential, gives the Rays another young asset, while Gray fills a need for the Red Sox roster. This transaction underscores Boston’s strategy of balancing immediate needs with long-term flexibility. Gray adds depth to a lineup that already features emerging stars, while the move clears space for other potential acquisitions. The trade also highlights how the Red Sox are managing positional depth. With Lowe’s departure, Boston can allocate playing time more efficiently and explore additional options for first base or designated hitter roles without compromising roster balance. Guerrero’s move to Tampa Bay also benefits the Rays, giving them a promising player in their farm system while Boston strengthens its infield options. The exchange reflects a win-win approach for both teams amid the busy MLB offseason.

3. Offseason Context and Future Moves

The Red Sox have been active in shaping their roster ahead of 2026, including reported interest in a reunion with Kyle Schwarber. Bringing back Schwarber as a designated hitter or middle-of-the-order bat could dramatically enhance Boston’s offensive firepower. With a crowded lineup and multiple potential free-agent targets, the team is clearly positioning itself to compete aggressively. Trades like Guerrero-for-Gray demonstrate a methodical approach, balancing roster construction with flexibility for future moves. The Lowe DFA also signals that Boston is willing to part with productive veterans when it serves the broader team strategy, freeing resources and roster spots for players who fit their long-term vision. As the offseason progresses, the Red Sox may continue to make strategic adjustments, blending acquisitions, trades, and veteran signings to assemble a competitive roster for 2026.