Red Sox Infield Defense Receives a Boost
Infield defense was one of the most glaring weaknesses for the Boston Red Sox in the 2024 season, but the landscape is set to change significantly in 2025. The Red Sox added the highly-touted Alex Bregman, a two-time World Series champion and Gold Glove winner, to their roster. Bregman’s defensive prowess, whether he plays at third base or second, will provide a substantial upgrade. At third base, he offers a stark contrast to Rafael Devers, who has consistently led the league in errors at the position over the past seven seasons. If he’s positioned at second, Bregman will bring much-needed stability to a role that saw numerous changes in 2024. The Red Sox’s middle infield defense is also contingent on the health of veteran shortstop Trevor Story, a two-time All-Star whose presence and right-handed bat are crucial for the team’s success. Additionally, young talents like Kristian Campbell and Vaughn Grissom are vying for consistent roles, adding depth and versatility to the roster.
Kristian Campbell: Rising Star in the Infield and Outfield
Kristian Campbell, a 22-year-old prospect, had a breakout 2024 season that saw him rise from relative obscurity to become one of the hottest prospects in baseball. Selected in the 2023 draft with a compensatory pick awarded to the Red Sox after Xander Bogaerts signed with the San Diego Padres, Campbell made a rapid ascent through the minor leagues, playing for High-A Greenville, Double-A Maine, and Triple-A Worcester. His impressive stats—.330 batting average, .439 on-base percentage, and .558 slugging percentage, along with 20 home runs and 77 RBIs in 115 games—earned him the 2024 Minor League Player of the Year award. Initially expected to compete with Vaughn Grissom for the starting second baseman job during spring training, the signing of Bregman altered Campbell’s immediate path. However, Campbell’s right-handed power and defensive versatility make him a valuable asset who is likely to find a role on the big-league team, potentially as a left fielder if the Red Sox decide to maximize his offensive impact.
Alex Bregman: A Flexible All-Star Addition
The Red Sox’s most significant acquisition of the offseason is undoubtedly Alex Bregman, a 31-year-old All-Star third baseman who signed a three-year, $120 million contract. Bregman, who has only played a handful of games at second base in his nine-year MLB career, is expected to start the 2025 season there, providing a much-needed defensive upgrade over the injured and inconsistent players who occupied the position last year. Despite his limited experience at second, Bregman’s Gold Glove-caliber defense and strong leadership qualities make him a valuable addition. His willingness to play wherever needed, as expressed during a press conference, underscores his team-first mentality. Bregman’s addition not only balances the Red Sox’s left-handed-heavy lineup but also brings a level of experience and professionalism that could be pivotal in a season where health and consistency are paramount.
Trevor Story: Key to Middle Infield Stability
Trevor Story, a 32-year-old shortstop, has been plagued by injuries since signing a six-year, $140 million contract with the Red Sox in 2022. In 2024, he played in just 26 games, hitting .255 with a .340 on-base percentage and a .394 slugging percentage, contributing only 2 home runs and 10 RBIs. His season was derailed by a dislocated shoulder, but he made a surprising return in September, appearing in 18 more games. A healthy Story is essential for the Red Sox, as he is one of the best defensive shortstops in the league. His offensive capabilities, honed during his time with the Colorado Rockies, could also significantly enhance the team’s performance. If Story can return to form and stay on the field, the Red Sox’s playoff prospects will improve dramatically. However, the specter of injuries remains, and a repeat of last year’s setbacks could once again disrupt the middle infield’s stability.
Vaughn Grissom: Proving Himself Again
Vaughn Grissom, a 24-year-old second baseman and shortstop, faces a "prove it" year in 2025. The Red Sox acquired Grissom from the Atlanta Braves in the trade that sent 2024 National League Cy Young award winner Chris Sale to Atlanta. Grissom’s 2024 season was marred by a hamstring injury and an illness that caused him to lose 14 pounds, affecting his performance at the plate. He struggled in the majors, hitting .190 with a .246 on-base percentage and a .219 slugging percentage, and only managed 6 RBIs in 31 games. Despite these setbacks, Grissom still holds promise as a young player with potential. As one of the youngest members of the Red Sox, and only two years older than Campbell and fellow top prospect Marcelo Mayer, Grissom could still develop into a key contributor. However, with Bregman and Campbell ahead of him, finding consistent playing time will be challenging unless injuries open up opportunities.
David Hamilton: Speedy Bench Option
David Hamilton, a 27-year-old utility player, experienced significant growing pains in his first full season with the Red Sox. Primarily a second baseman, Hamilton struggled defensively, but he showed flashes of promise, especially when called upon to replace Trevor Story at shortstop. His elite speed, which resulted in 33 stolen bases in 98 games, puts immense pressure on opposing teams and can tilt the game in Boston’s favor. Hamilton will serve as a speedy bench option in 2025, ready to step in if injuries strike. Manager Alex Cora has also indicated that Hamilton will see time in the outfield, adding to his versatility. While his offensive numbers were modest, with 8 home runs and 28 RBIs, his impact on the basepaths and the ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable asset for the team.
Ceddanne Rafaela: Versatile Defender and Hitting Improvements
Ceddanne Rafaela, a 24-year-old Curacao native, proved to be a versatile and important player for the Red Sox in 2024. Rafaela played 87 games in the outfield, 82 at shortstop, 10 at second base, and even made a few appearances at third. His defensive skills were consistently praised, but he needs to improve his plate discipline to become a more consistent hitter. In 152 games, Rafaela had 151 strikeouts and only 15 walks, highlighting a significant area for development. The team hopes he can build on his defensive strengths and refine his approach at the plate in 2025. While Rafaela is expected to primarily play the outfield this year, his defensive versatility will be a valuable asset, especially in a league where injuries can quickly change a team’s lineup.
