In preparation for the upcoming season, a new Red Sox roster projection identifies key players and positions for the Opening Day cut on March 28 in Seattle. Brayan Bello, Nick Pivetta, Kutter Crawford, Tanner Houck, and Cooper Criswell secure starting roles, while Lucas Giolito is sidelined due to a season-ending elbow procedure. Josh Winckowski transitions to the bullpen, joining an eight-member relief squad that includes Kenley Jansen, Chris Martin, and Garrett Whitlock. The infield lineup features Triston Casas, Enmanuel Valdez, Trevor Story, Rafael Devers, Pablo Reyes, and Bobby Dalbec, with Ceddanne Rafaela emerging as a potential utility player. In the outfield, Tyler O'Neill, Masataka Yoshida, Jarren Duran, Wilyer Abreu, and Rafaela showcase versatility, with Adam Duvall's absence signaling a focus on Rafaela's role. Catchers Connor Wong and Reese McGuire remain unchanged, expected to handle duties behind the plate.

The Big Picture

The Red Sox's roster projection reflects strategic decisions and adjustments as the team finalizes its lineup for the upcoming season, emphasizing player versatility and strategic depth across various positions.

By the Numbers
  • Starters: Brayan Bello, Nick Pivetta, Kutter Crawford, Tanner Houck, Cooper Criswell
  • Injured list: Lucas Giolito
  • Bullpen: Kenley Jansen, Chris Martin, Josh Winckowski, Garrett Whitlock, Justin Slaten, Brennan Bernardino, Isaiah Campbell, Greg Weissert
  • Injured list (bullpen): Liam Hendriks, Bryan Mata
  • Infield: Triston Casas, Enmanuel Valdez, Trevor Story, Rafael Devers, Pablo Reyes, Bobby Dalbec
  • Injured list (infield): Vaughn Grissom
  • Outfield: Tyler O'Neill, Masataka Yoshida, Jarren Duran, Wilyer Abreu, Ceddanne Rafaela
  • Injured list (outfield): Rob Refsnyder
  • Catchers: Connor Wong, Reese McGuire
State of Play
  • Bello, Pivetta, and Crawford secure starting rotation spots, with Houck, Whitlock, and Criswell competing for the remaining places.
  • Winckowski shifts to the bullpen, joined by potential reliever Whitlock, as the team navigates spring training challenges and player adjustments.
  • Rafaela emerges as a versatile option in the infield and outfield, potentially impacting roster decisions based on performance and positional needs.
Bottom Line

The Red Sox's evolving roster projection underscores a strategic balance between player roles, adaptability, and performance, setting the stage for a dynamic and competitive lineup as the season approaches.