Alex Cora Leaves Options Open Amid Red Sox Rookie’s Struggles

Kristian Campbell started his MLB career on fire, but the Boston Red Sox rookie struggled to maintain that start.

Campbell hit four home runs and recorded 12 RBIs off a .902 OPS in the first month of the season. The 22-year-old looked like he belonged in MLB, but his .386 OPS in the last month caused concern of a rookie wall.

Boston is very high on Campbell’s star potential, which begs the question: Would going down to Triple-A Worcester benefit the second baseman?

“We don’t rule anything out,” Cora told reporters, per The Boston Globe’s Alex Speier. “But right now, he’s going to play here, he’s going to get at-bats here, and we’re going to keep pushing him to be better.”

The Red Sox need to find the balance of allowing Campbell to find his way in MLB while also making sure his development doesn’t take a hit during his slump. Campbell’s transition to first base was halted after Romy González’s return from the injured list. Cora hopes that will help focus the young infielder and get his game at the plate back on track.