Bregman, Grissom, Campbell Who Will Be The Opening Day Second Baseman?

 Photo Credit: Getty ImagesRodger Wood/Diamond Images

    As of today, the Red Sox still have a massive hole in their lineup due to a lack of right-handed bats. One position that could accommodate one of these bats is second base. Based on multiple reports from around the league, Alex Bregman appears to be the most logical fit for Boston. However, the big question remains: Are ownership and Craig Breslow willing to commit to a significant contract for a player entering his age-31 season, especially one whom many believe may be heading into a decline?

    If the team signs Bregman, I would personally prefer to see him utilize his Gold Glove-caliber defense at third base. However, with Rafael Devers firm on playing the position and Masataka Yoshida still on the roster, it seems unlikely that Devers will be moved. While Bregman’s defensive prowess at third would be ideal, leaving second base open for the team’s No. 2 prospect, Kristian Campbell, or Vaughn Grissom—the key piece acquired in the Chris Sale trade—the reality is that Bregman playing second base if signed is the most likely scenario. This leaves the question of if Bregman is not signed who will ultimately man second base heading into 2025.

    I believe Kristian Campbell will be the starting second baseman for the Red Sox in 2025. If the team were serious about signing Bregman to play second, the move likely would have happened already—though surprises are possible, given that Bregman is represented by Scott Boras. Campbell’s primary competition, as mentioned, is Vaughn Grissom. Last season was a tough one for Grissom, as he began the year on the injured list and later suffered an illness that caused him to lose 10 pounds. He struggled early, bouncing between the majors and minors, but he finished the season strong. This late-season resurgence makes me believe he will be in serious contention for the second base job alongside Campbell.

    While Bregman’s presence would unquestionably improve the team, I don’t believe the gap between him and Campbell or Grissom is large enough to justify panic amongst the fanbase. I expect Campbell to win the job following his breakout minor league season. He shows great promise as a future Major League contributor, and Grissom also has the potential to be an impactful bat when healthy.

    As the offseason progresses, Red Sox fans need to remain patient. There are still impactful right-handed bats available in free agency, and many are hopeful that prospects like Campbell, Marcelo Mayer, and Anthony will soon make their mark at the Major League level. The future is bright and the present is starting to shine with the additions of Crochet and Buehler.