Fans cannot get over the size of Isiah Kiner-Falefa's new contract

Feb 5, 2026 (10:17)

Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Isiah Kiner-Falefa signing a one-year deal with the Boston Red Sox brings a versatile Gold Glove winner to the Fenway Park infield.

The news hit the wire late Wednesday and social media immediately went into a frenzy over the $6 million guarantee.

Does that say six million American dollars for IKF??

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Fans in Toronto and Boston are scratching their heads because they know exactly what the utility man brings to the table.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa (Drafted 4th round, 2013 by Texas) has become a household name in the division after stints with the Yankees and Blue Jays.

He is coming off a 2025 season where he slashed .262/.297/.334 across 138 games between Pittsburgh and Toronto.

While the offensive numbers might look modest, his value has always been tied to his glove and his ability to play anywhere.

Boston clearly values that flexibility as they look to shore up a second base spot that was a revolving door last year.

Red Sox fans are feeling a mix of relief for the depth and shock at the cost for a utility profile.

It is a classic "love him when he is yours, laugh when he is a rival" situation for the fanbases in the AL East.

The 30-year-old veteran has managed to carve out a long career by being the ultimate "glue guy" for every clubhouse he joins.

He won a Gold Glove at third base back in 2020, proving he can handle the hot corner at an elite level.

Last season, he even chipped in 15 stolen bases, showing he still has the wheels to make things happen on the paths.

With the Red Sox projected to fight for a Wild Card spot in 2026, every single win is going to matter.

The front office is banking on the fact that a reliable veteran is worth the premium to avoid the defensive meltdowns of the past.

If he can just provide a steady heartbeat for the bottom of the order, this deal might look like a steal by July.

Previously on Toronto Baseball Insider

POLL
FEVRIER 5\|307 ANSWERS Fans cannot get over the size of Isiah Kiner-Falefa's new contract Is Isiah Kiner-Falefa the missing piece the Red Sox need for infield stability?
Yes	120	39.1 %
No	187	60.9 %
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