I know they've been looking for bats, but if JD Martinez proves too difficult to sign, would DD consider adding Votto? Votto is 34 (35 in September 2018), and has 6/157 left on his contract. He also has a full no trade, which might scotch things before they begin. However, he would seem to represent the perfect type of hitter to add to a lineup heavy on RH hitters, and his ability to play 1b allows Hanley to stay at DH. Given the contract, the Reds may be willing to take B level prospects just to have Votto off the books, or perhaps someone like ERod if it came to that.
I realize this is a long shot, which is why I'm posting it here. If the acquisition cost isn't prohibitive, I believe I'd prefer Votto at 6/157 from ages 34-40 than JDM at 6/180 from 30-36. I realize the age difference isn't negligible, but Votto is an elite level batter who hasn't shown significant skill slippage-his 2017 season saw a career low 11.7k rate while his bb rate stayed at 19.
Just trying to figure out a plan B so the Red Sox aren't tied to Boras' timetable with Martinez (or heaven forbid, HOsmer.)