For the second time on Wednesday, the Red Sox have reportedly added a player with major league experience to a minor league contract.
Boston has reached an agreement on a non-roster deal with former Royals utility player Nate Eaton, according to MLB.com’s Jon Morosi. The contract includes an invite to spring training and offers $780,000 if Eaton reaches the majors. The 28-year-old, who turns 28 in December, is the second non-roster signing for the Red Sox on the same day, following the announcement of a deal with veteran catcher Seby Zavala.
Eaton made his MLB debut two years ago and appeared in 72 games for Kansas City over the 2022 and 2023 seasons, before spending all of last year in Triple-A Omaha. A former 21st-round draft pick, Eaton has a career .201 batting average with just one big league home run to his name. He struggled in Triple-A last season, hitting just .075 (4-for-53) over 28 games. However, in 2024, after being removed from the Royals’ 40-man roster, Eaton found success in Triple-A, posting a .252 average with 16 homers, 30 doubles, 60 RBIs, and a .738 OPS in 116 games.
Eaton is known for his versatility and speed. He stole 27 bases in 31 attempts last season and has played four different positions in the majors—three outfield spots and third base. At Omaha, he mainly played third base (42 games) but also saw significant time in left field (32 games), with appearances at second base, center field, and right field as well. In 2022, during his 44 major league games, Eaton ranked in the 100th percentile for arm strength, with an average throw speed of 98.1 mph. His sprint speed also ranked in the 97th percentile at 29.6 mph, according to Statcast.
While there’s no clear path to a major league roster spot for Eaton, given Rafael Devers’ solid hold on third base and the crowded outfield, his unique skills make him an intriguing depth option. Eaton is expected to begin the 2024 season with Triple-A Worcester.
