BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox made one of the most significant acquisitions of the season Monday, securing three-time All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman from the Baltimore Orioles in a multi-player deal that also brings veteran catcher Jake Rogers and cash considerations to Boston. In exchange, the Red Sox sent catcher Carlos Narváez, pitching prospects Anthony Eyanson and Kyson Witherspoon, outfield prospect Enddy Azocar, and a player to be named later or cash considerations to Baltimore.
The trade delivers Boston an elite, prime-age catcher with a decorated résumé, while Baltimore receives a substantial infusion of young talent headlined by three top organizational prospects.
Rutschman Gives Boston a Premier Two-Way Catcher
Rutschman, 28, has established himself as one of the sport’s premier catchers since debuting in 2022. A three-time American League All-Star (2023, 2024, 2026), he earned a Silver Slugger Award and All-MLB First Team honors in 2023. Before landing on the injured list July 20 with left wrist inflammation, Rutschman appeared in 67 games this season, batting .251 with a .331 on-base percentage, .764 OPS, 19 doubles, eight home runs, and 47 RBI.
Defensively, he has been among the league’s best. Rutschman has thrown out 41% of attempted base stealers (14 of 34), tied for the highest mark in the majors. He also ranks fifth among catchers in FanGraphs WAR (2.3) and owns one of the lowest strikeout rates at the position (14.1%, minimum 200 plate appearances).
Since being selected first overall in the 2019 draft, Rutschman has hit .254 with 540 career hits, 122 doubles, 69 home runs, and 277 RBI across 572 games. Among catchers since his debut, he ranks second in doubles, third in hits and WAR, fourth in runs scored, and seventh in RBI.
Rogers Adds Veteran Depth Behind the Plate
Rogers, 31, joins Boston after appearing in 39 games this season between Detroit and Baltimore. He has hit .163 with three home runs and nine RBI, but has been effective against left-handed pitching, batting .273 with an .815 OPS in those matchups. The former third-round pick has logged 370 career games across seven seasons.
Narváez Heads to Baltimore After Two Seasons in Boston
Narváez, 27, made 56 starts for the Red Sox this season, batting .187 with six doubles and three home runs. Signed originally by the Yankees as an international free agent in 2015, he has appeared in 186 major league games between New York and Boston.
Eyanson Highlights Baltimore’s Prospect Haul
Eyanson, 21, is the centerpiece of Baltimore’s return. Ranked No. 33 overall by Baseball America, he has dominated in his first professional season, posting a 1.32 ERA with 94 strikeouts in 68.1 innings across High-A and Double-A. The former LSU standout represented the American League in the 2026 All-Star Futures Game and is widely regarded as one of the top young pitchers in the minors.
Witherspoon Adds Another High-End Arm to Orioles’ System
Witherspoon, 21, ranked No. 97 overall by Baseball America, has made 17 starts for High-A Greenville, striking out 78 in 75.1 innings. Selected 15th overall in 2025, he projects as a potential mid-rotation starter with power stuff.
Azocar Brings Impact Bat and Athleticism
Azocar, 19, has emerged as one of Boston’s most promising young hitters. Across 85 games between Single-A Salem and High-A Greenville, he hit .286 with an .881 OPS, 27 doubles, 18 home runs, and 63 RBI. His 51 extra-base hits rank among the top totals for teenage players in the minors. Signed in 2024, he has hit .262 across 201 career minor league games.
The trade marks a major shift for both organizations: Boston secures one of the game’s premier catchers for the heart of its lineup, while Baltimore adds three top prospects and a young catcher as it reshapes its long-term roster structure.
