Red Sox Trade Nate Eaton to Athletics

Just one day after the World Series concluded, Craig Breslow and the Boston Red Sox got back to work as they completed a trade with the Athletics as first reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

The trade is also the first by new A's president of baseball operations Taylor Smith since being hired from the Red Sox. The familiarity between Breslow and Smith likely played a key factor in a trade coming together so quickly. 

Being shipped out is speedy outfielder Nate Eaton as the Red Sox make the first of what is expected to be multiple moves to free up 40-man roster spots. Eaton, who signed as a minor-league free agent prior to 2025, appeared in 65 games across the past two seasons and hit .244/.329/.336 while mainly playing against left-handed pitchers and being utilized for his speed.

In return, the Red Sox will receive 18-year-old Jareth Rayo, a right-handed pitcher who played in the Dominican Summer League in 2026 according to Francys Romero. Rayo made 11 appearances last year and tossed 36 innings, striking out 36 batters.

The move frees up a 40-man roster spot. The club will now need to clear up at least three more by the end of Monday before free agency officially begins.