The Boston Red Sox are gearing up for the 2026 season with some intriguing changes on the horizon. While FanGraphs’ projections suggest no Red Sox hitter will crack the 20-home run mark this year, there’s more to Boston’s game plan than just power. Last season’s slump in the second half and the playoff race highlighted the need for a fresh approach.
Boston has been leaning into speed on the base paths, though trading away key players like David Hamilton, known for his pinch-running prowess, might shake things up. In 2025, the Red Sox ranked sixth in MLB for stolen bases and secured the fourth spot in both hits and batting average.
Trevor Story led the charge with 31 stolen bases, followed by Jarren Duran and Hamilton with 24 and 22, respectively. Ceddanne Rafaela was the only other player with double-digit steals.
Enter Marcelo Mayer, a new contender in the speed department, who’s been turning heads in spring training. Despite playing only 44 games last year due to a wrist injury, Mayer is making waves with his improved speed, now outpacing both Story and Duran in 60-yard sprints.
Mayer has bulked up to 220 pounds, a significant jump from his listed 188, and showcased his speed at Story Camp this winter. “He’s got that first-step quickness,” Story noted, emphasizing Mayer's impressive base-running drills.
Determined to secure a starting role, Mayer spent the offseason honing his skills. “The second I got home, I got to work because I knew there was no time to waste,” he shared. His commitment is evident as he aims to bring speed back into his game, a trait he excelled in during his youth.
Adding to the mix, the Red Sox have brought in a power bat with Willson Contreras and are seeing Caleb Durbin work on his power hitting towards the Green Monster. Durbin offers solid baserunning and is a tough out for pitchers, rarely striking out and making consistent contact.
With Mayer’s newfound speed and these strategic roster moves, the Red Sox are shaping up to be an exciting team to watch this season.