In most cases, the veteran players are supposed to teach the rookies. However, for the Boston Red Sox, the opposite may also be true.
Amid the Rafael Devers first base saga, the Red Sox are turning to other internal options to fill the hole at the three. One emerging option is Kristian Campbell.
Gordo of WEEI shared this clip of Campbell practicing first base and his feelings on a potential move:
Campbell, a second baseman by trade (290 and 1/3 innings) with outfield eligibility (38 innings in center field, 12 in left field), is not a prototypical first baseman. The 6-foot-3, highly athletic rookie is best-suited for a position where he can maximize his range. He has also never played first in his four seasons as a professional.
But, should Campbell somehow earn the job, it would open up a world of possibilities for manager Alex Cora. For one, it would ease the Devers tension. Seemingly everyone associated with the Red Sox has disapproved of his reluctance to switch spots and finding a trustworthy replacement for Triston Casas could dissipate any ill will.
Boston Red Sox second baseman Kristian Campbell (28) warms up before a game against the Atlanta Braves at Fenway Park.
Eric Canha-Imagn Images
Secondly, it could pave the way for Marcelo Mayer. Boston’s No. 2 prospect and No. 8 in all of baseball has been a primary shortstop for Triple-A Worcester but is more than capable of playing third or second. Mayer feels like the natural fit at second, should Campbell eventually take regular reps at first.
This is all speculative, and Campbell’s fielding regimen may just be preparatory for depth or other injury issues. However, this is also a youngster who has already earned an eight-year, $60 million extension, and his recent quote further demonstrates his team-first mentality.
Campbell may not be the long-term solution at first, but Devers should consider taking a page out of his teammate’s book.
