Tension has emerged in Boston Red Sox camp following the addition of two-time All-Star Alex Bregman.
The Red Sox signed Bregman to a three-year, $120 million contract with opt-outs after the first and second years. Though Bregman is a Gold Glove third baseman, he’ll likely start at second because Rafael Devers refuses to switch positions.
Devers, a three-time All-Star and offensive powerhouse, has been a defensive liability throughout his career. He’s led either the AL or MLB in errors at third base seven times in eight seasons, including an AL-leading 12 errors last year. His career total stands at 141 errors.
The optimal solution would place Bregman at third and Devers at DH, but Devers’ resistance creates a dilemma. However, a top MLB insider sees a potential resolution.
MLB insider: Top prospect could force Alex Bregman to replace Rafael Devers at third
According to Jon Heyman, the Red Sox may find their answer if top prospect Kristian Campbell forces his way onto the Opening Day roster.
Campbell, a fourth-round draft pick in 2023, is considered one of baseball’s top-10 prospects. He has risen rapidly through the Red Sox minor league system, hitting 21 home runs with a .986 OPS in 137 games across four levels.
“If one of those great young prospects they have, whether it be Campbell or whomever, takes hold and they want him to be the second baseman, you might have to move him because Bregman would play third,” Heyman explained, calling it a “sticky” situation.
Despite this potential conflict, Boston’s offseason has been productive. Beyond Bregman, they acquired ace Garrett Crochet in a blockbuster trade with Chicago and signed World Series champion Walker Buehler to a one-year deal. The Red Sox aim to end their three-year playoff drought and return to October baseball for the first time since 2021.
