Alex Bregman’s Official Introduction
On Sunday, the Boston Red Sox officially welcomed Alex Bregman to their team at the spring training complex in Fort Myers, Florida. The announcement came with a detailed look at the lucrative three-year, $120 million contract he signed, which includes opt-outs after each of the first two seasons. A significant portion of his annual salary—$20 million out of $40 million—will be deferred each year. Bregman’s massive contract underscores the Red Sox’s commitment to bolstering their infield and adding a versatile player who can contribute both offensively and defensively. The press conference and Bregman’s first steps in Red Sox territory were met with enthusiasm and speculation about how he will fit into the team’s existing lineup.
The Infield Dilemma
One of the most pressing questions surrounding Bregman’s arrival is which position he will play in Boston’s infield. Manager Alex Cora was characteristically diplomatic, stating that the decision would be made later in spring training when the lineup has to be solidified. "We’ll talk about that later on," Cora said. "Right now, there’s a lot of stuff going on as far as where we’re going to be roster-wise, and we’ll make the decision when we have to make it." This ambiguity has only fueled the speculation and excitement among fans and analysts alike. The Red Sox are known for their strategic roster moves, and Bregman’s versatility could play a crucial role in shaping the infield.
Initial Speculation
Initial speculation suggested that Bregman might be moved to second base. Rafael Devers, a mainstay at third base, has been with the Red Sox for all of his eight MLB seasons and is considered the team’s most impactful hitter. Devers, while a valuable asset at the plate, is often criticized for his subpar defensive play. In contrast, Bregman won his first American League Gold Glove last season, a testament to his exceptional defensive skills. He has consistently rated highly under defensive metrics such as Defensive Runs Saved, Ultimate Zone Rating, and Outs Above Average, outperforming established defenders like Adrian Beltre, Evan Longoria, and Matt Chapman. Devers, by these same metrics, is one of the worst third basemen in the league, having played at least 900 innings at the position. This stark contrast in defensive ability has led many to believe that a position switch could be beneficial for the team.
Other Infield Options
However, the Red Sox have several other infield options to consider. Triston Casas, who is expected to play first base, missed four months of the 2022 season due to a rib cage injury. This setback means that Casas might need additional time to regain his form and establish himself as a reliable starter. Masataka Yoshida, who served as the designated hitter (DH) last season, is also a factor. Yoshida recently underwent right labrum surgery but is signed for three more years at $55.8 million. There is potential for him to contribute in left field, providing more flexibility in the lineup. Additionally, Vaughn Grissom and top prospect Kristian Campbell are ready to compete for the second base position. While Bregman could take the spot at second base, Cora’s confidence in Bregman’s adaptability suggests that the decision may still be in flux.
Bregman’s Defensive Versatility
Cora’s positive remarks about Bregman’s defensive capabilities at second base are reassuring. "He has quick hands, good footwork," Cora noted, "He’s done it before. I know it was just a few games, but if you look at the highlights or whatever, he’s very clean. He’s a good infielder. He uses his feet the right way. He has good hands. The arm plays." Bregman’s experience at multiple infield positions, including shortstop, adds to his value. His ability to seamlessly transition between positions could provide the Red Sox with the flexibility they need to optimize their lineup and field a strong defensive team. Bregman’s impressive defensive metrics and accolades suggest that he could excel at second base, potentially making it the most likely option.
Looking Forward to Spring Training
As the Red Sox head into spring training, the positioning of Bregman and other key players will be a focal point for both the team and its fans. Cora’s reluctance to make a hasty decision reflects the careful consideration the Red Sox are giving to their roster dynamics. The team’s management will likely use the coming weeks to evaluate Bregman’s performance at different positions, along with the readiness of other players like Casas and Yoshida. The combination of Bregman’s defensive prowess and his offensive capabilities makes him a valuable addition to the Red Sox, no matter where he ultimately ends up playing. The anticipation of seeing how the pieces fall into place is just another exciting aspect of the upcoming season.
