Report: Red Sox open to trading Bradley Jr. for power bat

The Boston Red Sox felt David Ortiz's absence in the first season following his retirement. They hit 168 home runs as a unit in 2017, ahead of only three teams.

One possible solution could be dealing center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr., and the Red Sox have let multiple teams know that the 27-year-old is available, reports USA TODAY Sports' Bob Nightengale. If Boston does move him, the club will do so in an attempt to address last season's team-wide power outage.

Despite hitting 17 homers in 2017, Bradley Jr. was otherwise disappointing at the plate as he hit .245/.323/.402 over 133 games. His true value comes from his defensive prowess; he was third among qualified center fielders in defensive runs saved (10) last season.

Related: Giants reportedly interested in Bradley Jr.

The Red Sox are said to be interested in Chicago Cubs slugger Kyle Schwarber, though Chicago's apparently unlikely to deal him. The Cubs already feature a fairly stacked outfield with Albert Almora Jr., Jason Heyward, and others getting playing time.