Red Sox sign star prospect Kristian Campbell to eight-year extension
For the second time this week, the Red Sox locked up another piece of their future on Wednesday. They signed INF/OF Kristian Campbell to an eight-year extension that will go through the 2034 season. His new contract, which includes two club options, is worth $60 million.Â
Less than two weeks into his first big league season, Campbell has been a human highlight reel. Through 16 at-bats, the talented 22-year-old has posted a .375 batting average and hit one home run. He has at least one hit in four of the five games he has played.Â
While Campbell has hit the ground running, his hot start comes as no surprise. Last season, he became one of the best prospects in baseball while playing at three different levels. In 115 games, the former fourth-round pick posted a .330 batting average while driving in 77 runs. He also provided solid defense and showed great plate discipline.
Due to his play Campbell entered spring training fighting for a spot on the roster. He won the second base job and has shown no signs of giving it up anytime soon. As the Red Sox look to end their postseason drought, Campbell joins a core full of talent.Â
Earlier this week, the Red Sox showed a willingness to spend when they signed Garrett Crochet to a six-year, $170 million deal. Ceddanne Rafaela, Brayan Bello, and Rafael Devers are also signed through 2030. More young talent is coming with Marcelo Mayer and Roman Anthony to the majors later this year.
After years of change, the Red Sox finally have their second baseman of the future. Since former AL-MVP Dustin Pedroia retired following the 2017 season, the Red Sox have been led in games played at second by six different players in seven years.