Breaking News: Alex Cora Hints At Favorite To Win Red Sox Starting Infield Job..

As the Boston Red Sox gear up for the 2025 season, the composition of their starting infield has become a focal point of discussion. Manager Alex Cora’s recent comments and the team’s offseason moves provide insights into the likely configuration of the infield positions.

First Base: Triston Casas’ Role

Triston Casas is poised to start as the Red Sox’s first baseman for the 2025 season. Despite trade rumors, the team appears committed to Casas, who, despite injuries limiting him to 63 games in 2024, showcased his potential with 13 home runs and strong plate discipline. Manager Alex Cora values lineup versatility, considering options like Rafael Devers or Alex Bregman for first base, but Casas remains the preferred choice. Projections suggest Casas will hit 27 home runs with a 124 WRC+ this season.

Second Base: Kristian Campbell’s Emergence

The second base position is particularly intriguing, with top prospect Kristian Campbell emerging as a strong candidate. Campbell, ranked as the fourth-best prospect in baseball by Baseball America, impressed during his rapid ascent through Boston’s farm system last season. Manager Alex Cora has noted Campbell’s physicality, speed, and advanced approach at the plate, even comparing his swing mechanics to those of George Springer. While the acquisition of Alex Bregman adds depth to the infield, Campbell’s performance in spring training has positioned him as a leading contender for the starting second baseman role.

Shortstop: Trevor Story’s Return

Trevor Story is expected to reclaim his position as the starting shortstop. After dealing with injuries in previous seasons, Story’s return adds defensive stability and offensive prowess to the lineup. His experience and leadership are invaluable assets as the team integrates younger players into the infield.

Third Base: The Bregman-Devers Dynamic

The signing of Alex Bregman has introduced both talent and flexibility to the Red Sox’s infield. Bregman, a Gold Glove-winning third baseman, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the Houston Astros. However, Rafael Devers, a cornerstone of the Red Sox, has made it clear that he intends to remain at third base. Bregman has expressed his willingness to adapt, stating his readiness to play wherever needed to contribute to the team’s success. This flexibility allows Cora to experiment with different infield alignments, potentially moving Bregman to second base to accommodate both players’ preferences and strengths.

Managerial Perspective: Alex Cora’s Approach

Alex Cora’s management style emphasizes versatility and adaptability. He has been proactive in assessing the talents of both established players and emerging prospects. Cora’s glowing reviews of players like Mikey Romero highlight his commitment to developing young talent and integrating them into the team’s future plans. His strategic decisions, such as considering different infield alignments to balance offense and defense, reflect a nuanced understanding of the team’s dynamics and the demands of a competitive season.

Prospect Depth: Mikey Romero’s Progress

Beyond the immediate starting roles, the Red Sox have a pipeline of talent that could impact the infield configuration in the future. Mikey Romero, the team’s 2022 first-round pick, has been making significant strides in his development. Manager Alex Cora has praised Romero’s instincts and abilities, indicating that he sees a promising future for the young infielder. While Romero may not start the season in the majors, his progress is a testament to the organization’s depth and commitment to nurturing talent.

Conclusion: A Season of Strategic Flexibility

The 2025 season presents the Red Sox with both challenges and opportunities in configuring their infield. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising prospects, Alex Cora has the tools to craft a lineup that balances offensive firepower with defensive solidity. The willingness of players like Alex Bregman to adapt to new roles, combined with the emergence of talents like Kristian Campbell, positions the team to navigate the rigors of the season effectively. As the season unfolds, the infield’s composition may evolve, reflecting Cora’s strategic adjustments and the players’ performances. This dynamic approach underscores the team’s commitment to competitiveness and adaptability in pursuet of postseason success.