Red Sox Insider Outlines ‘Increasingly Likely’ Lineup Scenario

Alex Bregman joining the Red Sox prompted an important question: Who will be Boston’s regular third baseman in 2025?

The actual answer to that question remains to be seen. But as for the short term, the statuses of multiple players might have made the decision relatively easy for Alex Cora.

Rafael Devers, who made it very clear that he doesn’t want to play any position other than the hot corner, had a slow start to spring training. Devers has yet to appear in an exhibition game since Boston reported to Fort Myers, Fla., last month, and the Red Sox clearly are erring on the side of caution with one of their franchise cornerstones.

Thus, don’t be surprised if Bregman is slotted at third base in a few weeks when Boston opens its regular season in Texas.

“With just two weeks left in camp, it seems increasingly likely Alex Bregman will begin the season as the team’s third baseman and Devers will start the year at designated hitter, though Cora has refused to address the situation, only saying they’ll figure it out before the end of camp,” The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey wrote. “Masataka Yoshida is still building up his throwing progression after offseason shoulder surgery but is only throwing at 60 feet. He’s appeared in spring games at DH, but at this point, a likely scenario entails him starting the season on the IL with Devers at DH.”

Of course, that initial lineup structure might not prove to be permanent for the Red Sox. Cora acknowledged Bregman “at one point” will see action at second base, where Vaughn Grissom or Kristian Campbell could be situated come Opening Day.

Ultimately, Cora has a great deal of flexibility on his hands thanks to a revamped roster. And that’s a great luxury to have for a manager.