How Kristian Campbell could impact Alex Bregman
Over the last few days, there has been a buzz over the Red Sox's chance to compete that hasn't been felt in some time. That is due to the addition of two-time all-star Alex Bregman. While Bregman will be a key source of offense and fill a huge void, his position is still to be determined due to one of the best prospects in baseball, Kristian Campbell.
The former fourth-round pick is battling for a spot on the Opening Day roster after a stellar 2024 campaign. According to Chris Cotillo and Sean McAdam of MassLive, the Red Sox have not said what position Bregman will play due to their willingness to give Campbell a pathway to making the Opening Day roster at this point of spring training.
In 115 games between three levels last season, Campbell posted a .330 batting average while driving in 77 runs. He also showed off his power with 55 extra-base hits, including 20 home runs. Regardless of the level, he was on base machine and a threat on the bases.
If Campbell were to earn a spot out of spring training, Bregman would most likely see time at second and third, shifting Rafael Devers to DH. While there are multiple scenarios the Red Sox could go with, Alex Cora left the door open for any possibility on Saturday.
“ He’s a Gold Glove third baseman” Cora said when talking with the media. “ He hasn’t played second base in the big leagues. I do believe he can be a Gold Glove second baseman, too. There’s other stuff that comes into play as far as roster construction and what’s better for the team and what can be the best lineup. Competition comes into play.”
As spring training continues, Campbell will be closely watched. He has terrorized minor-league pitching and doesn’t have much left to prove. His fate could determine where Bregman slots in on Opening Day.
I was a firm believer Campbell would go north with the club this spring until Bregman was signed. I still think it's possible, but who would be the odd man out? Do you put Campbell in LF, make Rafaela a utility player next to Romy and Hamilton is the odd man out? If that's the case, Bregman could still play 2B. There are an unlimited number of possibilities right now. Don't sleep on Grissom either. He's hit at every level including in Atlanta at the Big League level. So, he could force his way back into the plans as well. Worcester might be better than the Rockies at the start of the season.