With J.D. Martinez hitting free agency, the Red Sox need a new designated hitter. They tried to fill the role earlier in the week, but missed on signing free agent Jose Abreu. Now, it appears they're moving on to their next target.

According to MLB Network's Jon Morosi, the Red Sox are one of two "serious suitors" for former Mariners outfielder and DH Mitch Haniger. The Texas Rangers are the other team named by Morosi.

Yes, the Red Sox showing 'interest' in a player in free agency always comes with a grain of salt. Still, taking the report at face value, Haniger actually projects as a great fit for Boston.

The 31-year-old righty would add some much-needed power to the middle of the Red Sox lineup. He's two years removed from a 39-homer, 100-RBI season with the Mariners in 2021. An ankle injury cost him significant time last year, but still hit 11 home runs and drove in 34 runs in 57 games.

That's pretty much been the story of Haniger's career to this point. The two seasons he's played in over 100 games he's been excellent, pairing his 2021 season with an All-Star year in 2018. However he missed significant time in 2017, 2019, and 2022, plus the entire pandemic-shortened 2020 season.

In the past, the Red Sox have not been afraid to invest in players who are historically injury prone. Haniger's upside when healthy suggests he may be worth that kind of investment.

Plus, he likely wouldn't have to play the field as much in Boston as he had in Seattle in recent seasons. Over the last two years he played 170 games in the outfield - all in right field - and just 46 as a DH.

With teams starting to make calls, Haniger's market is reportedly beginning to take shape. According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, any potential deal for Haniger is expected to be worth around $15 million per year, with "a growing belief he’ll secure a three-year contract."

Will this be the time interest pays off for the Red Sox? Or will they end up having to move on to Plan C? With other top bats such as Carlos Correa, Xander Bogaerts, and Aaron Judge still on the market, Haniger could take his time and see if any teams who miss out on the top of the class become more willing to spend.

More from Felger & Mazz producer Jimmy Stewart: 

"Since 2017, Haniger has an .817 OPS, which is 52nd-best in MLB (minimum 2000 PA). If adjusted for park effects, he moves up to 34th-best in MLB at 126th, just ahead of Xander Bogaerts (125th) and Rafael Devers (124th). Bottom line is that on offense, he’s an adequate replacement for either of those guys (I’m not saying he’s better, or even as good, but the point is he’s not really a drop-off on offense). As a pull hitter (to left field) in his career, Haniger has batted .429 and slugged .891, with 60 doubles and 56 homers in 503 at-bats. His hard hit percentage is 44.5%, which is well above the MLB average of 38.7%, and it was over 47% in 2022. He’s an above-average right fielder on defense. I'm pro this guy."

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.