Red Sox Can Finally Solve This Hole With Internal Options This Offseason

WORCESTER, Mass. -- The Boston Red Sox searched for seven seasons for a permanent second baseman. That search continues as the 2024 season comes to a close. For the first time in forever, the Red Sox do have internal candidates that could finally lock down that position for the foreseeable future.

Kristian Campbell and Vaughn Grissom, both in Triple-A Worcester, likely headline that race to earn the starting job in spring training. Alex Cora and the Red Sox also cycle plenty of depth through the position. Enmanuel Valdez, Mickey Gasper, David Hamilton, and Romy Gonzalez are just a few to rotate through this year.

Next spring, Chase Meidroth should shoot straight to the top of those depth options as a player who holds the offensive profile and defensive versatility to stabilize second base when given the opportunity.

Meidroth, a 2022 fourth-round pick, recognizes that there's plenty of talent on the cusp of the big leagues and the beneficial competition between the Red Sox prospects.

"It's awesome," Meidroth told NESN.com at Polar Park. "You're competing with and against them at the same time. It's awesome. Me and Vaughn have gotten really close this year. Working with him every day has been awesome. Another guy is (Nick) Sogard, to play with him every day was awesome. Two really talented guys up the middle. It's been a good time."

Meidroth posted another strong season in the minors, this time at Triple-A Worcester, with a high on-base percentage and capable defense. His strength training leads his priorities this winter before the Red Sox reconvene in Fort Myers.

"The big thing is strength, maybe a little more flexibility," Meidroth said. "A few guys are gonna go out and do some yoga this offseason. I'm getting into that. Pilates and strength training. Just being more physical."

All three options between Meidroth, Campbell and Grissom enter with a reason to compete for the Red Sox spot. They also maintain the ready mindset to boost the Red Sox when called upon.

"I'll be ready when my name's called, for sure," Meidroth added. "That's why I come in every day. I want to get stronger as the season goes on and going into the offseason. I'm ready for the offseason and to make the jump."