The Boston Red Sox welcomed Alex Bregman into their ranks on Sunday at their spring training base in Fort Myers, Florida. The details of his lucrative three-year, $120 million contract were disclosed – it includes the flexibility for Bregman to opt out after each of the first two seasons and a significant portion of his annual $40 million salary will be deferred. However, amidst the excitement of his arrival, one crucial question remains unanswered: which position will Bregman occupy in the Red Sox’s infield?
Manager Alex Cora revealed that the decision regarding Bregman’s position will be made in due course as spring training progresses. The team is currently navigating various roster considerations before finalizing the line-up. The speculation surrounding Bregman’s role in the team initially leaned towards a potential shift to second base, given Rafael Devers’ stronghold at third base for eight MLB seasons. Devers, while a potent hitter, has been criticized for his defensive capabilities, unlike Bregman who boasts a Gold Glove win and impressive defensive metrics.
Despite the uncertainty, Cora expressed confidence in Bregman’s adaptability, particularly referencing his experience at shortstop and demonstrating solid defensive skills during fielding drills. The team is also considering other factors such as player injuries, ongoing recoveries, and prospect development in determining the best fit for Bregman within the infield dynamics. As the Red Sox navigate these decisions, the anticipation among fans and analysts is palpable, envisioning the potential impact of Bregman’s addition to the team’s defensive lineup.
