As the MLB spring training schedule enters its final stretch, the Boston Red Sox roster is beginning to take shape. Several players have stood out to manager Alex Cora during exhibition games, including top second-base prospect Kristian Campbell.
Ranked as Boston’s No. 2 prospect by MLB.com, Campbell has made a strong impression this spring and is a serious contender for an Opening Day roster spot. However, his defensive position has been a topic of debate, as he is capable of playing both second base and the outfield.
Over the weekend, Cora put an end to that uncertainty.
Red Sox News: Kristian Campbell to Focus on Second Base
Speaking with the media on Sunday, Cora confirmed that Campbell will no longer play left field and will instead focus on second base for the remainder of spring training, according to Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic.
So far this spring, Campbell has spent slightly more time at second base (30 innings) than in left field (21 innings). Cora and his staff have evidently seen enough to make second base his primary position.
Campbell primarily played second base during the 2024 season, logging 310 1/3 innings across three minor-league levels. 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, his offensive performance was equally impressive last year. The 2023 fourth-round pick put up strong numbers, hitting .330/.439/.558 with 20 home runs, 77 RBIs, and 74 walks over 115 games.
However, his bat has struggled this spring, managing just four hits with 11 strikeouts in 26 at-bats. Cora recently challenged him to be more selective at the plate, as continued struggles could lead to a stint in the minors to start the season.
With about two weeks left in spring training, Campbell still has time to prove he belongs on the Opening Day roster. His next opportunity to showcase his potential will come when the Red Sox take on the Philadelphia Phillies.