The Boston Red Sox’s recent decision to position rookie Kristian Campbell at first base against the Atlanta Braves has raised eyebrows, given his lack of professional experience at the position. However, this move reflects the team’s current roster challenges and Campbell’s adaptability.
Campbell, a 22-year-old infielder/outfielder, signed an eight-year, $60 million extension with the Red Sox in April 2025, despite limited major league experience. His minor league performance was impressive, boasting a .327 average and .986 OPS over two seasons. However, his transition to the majors has been rocky, with a .335 OPS in recent games and defensive struggles at second base.
Manager Alex Cora’s decision to experiment with Campbell at first base is a response to the team’s pressing needs. With the release of Dom Smith and the injury to Justin Slaten, the Red Sox are exploring internal solutions to bolster their lineup. Campbell’s versatility, having played multiple positions in the minors, makes him a candidate for this experimental role.
This strategy also reflects broader concerns about the team’s offseason roster construction. Despite several successful decisions by executive Craig Breslow, the Red Sox find themselves in a challenging position, relying on untested solutions like Campbell at first base.
