As Opening Day draws near, MLB teams are deep in the throes of finalizing their rosters, and the Boston Red Sox are navigating some intriguing challenges. Unlike many teams, Boston faces a unique puzzle, particularly in their infield, despite recent acquisitions aimed at bolstering their lineup.
A lingering shoulder injury has sidelined Romy Gonzalez for the season opener, but this only slightly narrows the field of candidates vying for a spot in the middle infield. The Red Sox's roster dynamics are further complicated by a crowded outfield, making their decisions even more critical.
In a recent prediction, Peter Abraham from The Boston Globe suggests that Andruw Monasterio is poised to secure the starting position at second base. This move would shift Caleb Durbin to third base, a familiar spot for him after a standout 2025 season that saw him as a National League Rookie of the Year finalist.
Monasterio, initially a supplementary piece in the trade for Durbin intended to fill gaps left by Alex Bregman and Rafael Devers, has quickly risen as a formidable contender for second base. His performance in the Grapefruit League, with two hits including a homer, three walks, and two RBIs across three games, has caught attention.
The question on many fans' minds is the absence of Marcelo Mayer from the Opening Day lineup. Mayer is still on a cautious path back from wrist surgery, with his first Grapefruit League appearance slated for February 27.
Manager Alex Cora has indicated that Mayer’s roster spot is not a given, emphasizing the need for improved offensive output. Mayer's 2025 stats show promise in defense, but his offensive numbers, including a .228/.272/.402 slash line and a high strikeout rate, leave room for growth.
Should Monasterio's current hot streak at the plate wane, or if Mayer or Isiah Kiner-Falefa step up, the battle for second base could intensify. Until Mayer gains more spring training experience, Monasterio remains the frontrunner, but the competition is far from settled. The Red Sox's decisions in the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping their infield for the season ahead.