Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has shared an update on the position of one of the team’s top prospects as spring training progresses.
As the MLB spring training schedule approaches its final stretch, the Boston Red Sox’s roster is beginning to take shape. Several players have impressed manager Alex Cora during the early exhibition games, including top second baseman prospect Kristian Campbell.
Ranked as Boston’s No. 2 prospect by MLB.com, Campbell has performed exceptionally well this spring and is making a strong case for an Opening Day roster spot. However, his defensive role has been a topic of discussion, as the 22-year-old is capable of playing both second base and the outfield.
After some consideration, Cora finally settled the debate over the weekend.
Red Sox News: Kristian Campbell to Play Second Base Going Forward
On Sunday morning, Alex Cora spoke with the media about Kristian Campbell’s defensive future. According to The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey, Cora confirmed that Campbell will transition from left field to second base for the remainder of spring training.
This spring, Campbell has logged more innings in the infield than the outfield, with 30 innings at second base compared to 21 in left field. Cora and his coaching staff saw enough from the Chattanooga, TN native to make second base his primary position moving forward.
Campbell played primarily at second base in 2024, logging 310 1/3 innings across three minor-league levels. Defensively, he posted a .980 fielding percentage with 49 putouts, 98 assists, and 15 double plays while committing just three errors.
While his defense has been solid, Campbell also impressed at the plate last year. In his first full-length minor-league season, the 2023 fourth-round pick hit 20 home runs, drove in 77 RBIs, and drew 74 walks while slashing .330/.439/.558 over 115 games.
However, his offensive production hasn’t carried over this spring. In 26 at-bats, Campbell has managed just four hits while striking out 11 times. Cora recently challenged his top prospect to be more selective at the plate, as continued struggles could lead to a minor-league assignment to start the season.
Campbell still has about two weeks to make his case for an Opening Day roster spot. His next opportunity to prove himself will come on Tuesday at 1:05 p.m. ET when the Red Sox take on the Philadelphia Phillies.
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