The Boston Red Sox have an unusual roster as they prepare for the 2026 season. They’re deep in the outfield and starting rotation but light on infielders and relievers.
Barring some last-minute trades or signings, the Red Sox will need to get creative with their lineup this year. They have four outfielders for three spots and still have holes to fill at third base and second base.
Many have wondered whether Boston would consider moving one of its outfielders to the infield to help solve both issues, especially after asking Rafael Devers to play multiple new positions last year. Ceddanne Rafaela has MLB experience at second base, third base and shortstop, while Jarren Duran was a second baseman in college.
According to Friday’s report (subscription required) from The Athletic‘s Jen McCaffrey, however, that appears unlikely.
“Though Rafaela played second base at times last season, the Red Sox want to avoid that due to his impact on games as a Gold Glove winner in center,” McCaffrey writes. “There have been questions about Duran moving back to the infield, where he began his career, but the Red Sox no longer view that as an option.”
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That’s not surprising. Rafaela is one of the best defensive center fielders in baseball, so moving him to the infield would significantly harm Boston’s outfield defense. Meanwhile, Duran hasn’t played the infield since his first Minor League season in 2018.
“If the Red Sox move ahead with a four-man group in the outfield — a scenario that seems likely at this point — playing time will be up to manager Alex Cora, who has said he prefers Ceddanne Rafalea in center and Abreu in right with Roman Anthony and Jarren Duran likely splitting time between designated hitter and left field,” McCaffrey adds.
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As for the infield, that likely means Marcelo Mayer at third base and some combination of Romy Gonzalez, David Hamilton and Nick Sogard at second base.
Featured image via Ken Blaze/Imagn Images
