Second base is a critical defensive position, and the Red Sox have typically sought out solid fielding middle infielders. For now, however, it does seem that Kristian Campbell is slated to be the next big starter for the team’s spot at the second base heading into the 2025 MLB season, where he has been rumored to be a big performer for the team moving forward.

It is no secret that Alex Cora and the rest of the Boston Red Sox are evaluating Campbell’s effectiveness on the second base heading into the deeper stages of Spring Training. One can say that there’s at least high hopes that the MLB Pipeline’s No. 7 overall prospect will be able to land a starting role for Cora’s lineup in Boston when they take on the 2025 season.

Campbell's bat is going to be a key factor in determining if he can stick as a starter at second base. If you look at his minor league stats, there are likely concerns around his consistency or power numbers, especially when compared to other up-and-coming players.

The Need for MLB-Level Games

For Campbell to earn a starting role, he'd need to show he can handle MLB pitching and provide at least a league-average offensive output — something that has been an issue for the Red Sox in recent seasons at the position.

“He did a good job, made some plays,” Red Sox manager Alex Cora said. “He's going to get more reps there. It feels like he's getting comfortable. Put a good swing on the ball, and then the walk also, that was good.”

The Red Sox had Campbell focusing his work on second base drills for most of the Spring Training, and it cannot be denied that the position is wide open and may well be the best fit for the prospect. That says a lot about the pending value that Campbell brings to the table as he hopes to make a break in the Majors as well.

Campbell is competing with David Hamilton, who has enjoyed a strong spring of his own, and Vaughn Grissom, who is on the mid side of the game. Hamilton is arguably the best pick for now, but Campbell packs a strong upside on the offensive end and is even projected to be an impact player.

“We]are just finding different ways to help me move more efficiently in the infield, quicker ways to turn double plays,” said Campbell. “The way I did it before wasn’t terrible, but there's little things you can do to help improve in the infield. Little things just like that. You just want to be as best as you can so whenever you get out there, it’s as quick as possible turning two.”

Proving Efficiency

Campbell would need to prove he’s reliable with the glove, with good range, quick hands, and strong double-play ability. If his defense stands out at the big league level or even in a strong spring training, that could make him a viable option to start.

“It is what it is, right? It's still Spring Training,” Cora said. “As long as we swing at the right ones, that's the most important thing. We want him to make sure he’s still making good swing decisions. And when you do that over and over and over again, the results are going to come."

The Red Sox have had a focus on offensive production from their infielders, and their middle infield is no exception. That’s where Campbell’s value comes in heading into the final stretch of Spring Training.