In a move that has sent waves through the baseball community, the Boston Red Sox have acquired outfielder Isaiah Jackson from the Los Angeles Angels in exchange for infielder Vaughn Grissom. This trade, announced on December 10, 2025, marks a significant shift in both teams' strategies as they look ahead to the 2026 season.
The Red Sox are hoping that Jackson, a power-hitting outfielder, will bring a dynamic presence to their future lineup. Jackson, who was selected in the eighth round of the 2025 MLB draft, has shown potential in his early pro ball career, though his stats in High-A Tri-City were modest, slashing .219/.324/.344 in his first 10 games.
Despite his early struggles, the Red Sox see Isaiah Jackson as a promising prospect with the potential to develop into a key player. Jackson's selection by the Angels and subsequent trade to the Red Sox highlight his potential, as he was ranked as the Angels' No. 25 prospect by MLB Pipeline.
On the other hand, the Angels acquired Grissom for infield depth, aiming to revitalize his career after a challenging 2025 season. Grissom, who spent most of the 2025 season in Triple-A, will get a fresh start with his new team, where he hopes to improve on his .190 batting average in 31 MLB games with the Red Sox.
This trade underscores the strategic vision of both teams. The Red Sox are investing in youth and potential, focusing on long-term development, while the Angels are looking to bolster their infield with an experienced player who can provide immediate impact.
The future of the Red Sox is bright with the addition of Isaiah Jackson. While Jackson may return to A-ball in 2026, the team is confident in his ability to grow and contribute to their success in the coming years.
As the baseball community awaits the 2026 season, this trade will be closely watched. The Red Sox are betting big on their new outfielder, while the Angels hope that Grissom can return to form and provide the depth they need. Fans of both teams will be eager to see how these moves play out on the field.
