The Boston Red Sox have some serious holes to fill this offseason, but there's one that's barely on anyone's radar... and it could be a bigger problem than you think. Everyone's talking about the need for a top-tier starting pitcher and a power-hitting slugger – and, of course, the big question: will Alex Bregman be back at third base? These are definitely priorities. First base is even in the mix, given Triston Casas' injury struggles. But there's another position that’s quietly screaming for attention: second base.
Why is second base being overlooked? Well, in 2025, the Red Sox ranked a mediocre 17th in OPS (.670) from the second base position. But here's where it gets controversial... They cycled through six different players at that spot! That kind of instability can kill team chemistry and offensive consistency. Defensively, things weren't much better. They were tied for 22nd in the majors with minus-nine defensive runs saved (DRS) at second. Ouch.
So, what's the plan? All eyes are on Marcelo Mayer, the highly touted prospect. He's the obvious internal solution. But is he really the answer right now? There are a few big question marks. First, with the uncertainty at third base (depending on the Bregman situation), Mayer might be needed to fill that role instead. Second, and this is crucial, is he even ready for the everyday grind of the majors? He's never played more than 91 games in a professional season due to injuries. Can he handle the physical demands of a full 162-game MLB schedule?
And this is the part most people miss: Manager Alex Cora has historically been hesitant to use Mayer, a left-handed hitter, against left-handed pitchers. In 2025, the Red Sox faced lefties in 28% of their games. Can Mayer hold his own against them, or will he need to be platooned? It's a significant consideration.
Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow acknowledges the challenge. "I think he can play every day," Breslow said at the GM Meetings, but then quickly added, "I certainly wouldn’t want to set limits on what he’s capable of doing. He hasn’t and that’s something we of course need to be mindful of.” That's a vote of confidence... with a big asterisk.
The Red Sox have challenged Mayer to focus on building strength this offseason to improve his durability. Breslow emphasized the importance of Mayer getting healthy and stronger, noting his commitment to the weight room. A stronger Mayer would undoubtedly improve the defense at second base, where he is considered a sure-handed fielder. "The most important thing for him is to get healthy, to spend this offseason getting bigger and stronger in a way that maybe he hadn’t been able to in years past because of these injuries that have been stubborn and stuck around,” Breslow stated. “He’s already off to a great start. We had some guys that were able to see him a week or so ago. He’s committed to the work in the weight room and so we’re really optimistic about what he’s going to do.”
Another option, Romy Gonzalez, excelled against left-handed pitching in 2025, batting .331 with a .600 slugging percentage. He could be a valuable platoon partner for Mayer, especially early in the season.
The ultimate solution at second base hinges on several factors, including the Bregman situation. If Bregman returns, Mayer might be locked in at second. The Red Sox could also look outside the organization to fill the position, allowing Mayer to play third. Boldly highlighting any point in the article that could spark differing opinions: The team is committed to Trevor Story at shortstop, despite his defensive struggles there in 2025 (after being an elite defender at second in 2022!). This commitment further complicates the second base situation.
Kristian Campbell, who started the 2025 season as the everyday second baseman, struggled defensively, posting a league-worst minus-16 defensive runs saved in just 471 ⅔ innings. The team envisions him as an outfielder long-term and seeks stability in his position. This leaves the Red Sox with a clear need for a reliable second baseman.
So, the big question is: Are the Red Sox underestimating the importance of solidifying the second base position? Is relying on Mayer, with his injury history and platoon limitations, a gamble worth taking? Should they prioritize a veteran free agent to provide stability? And controversy & comment hooks perhaps, are they too quick to move on from Campbell, who showed offensive potential? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. What do YOU think the Red Sox should do at second base?
