The Boston Red Sox held their annual Fenway Fest this past weekend, an event for Red Sox players, coaches, and executives to speak to fans and media in the dog days of the offseason.
The Red Sox marquee move of the offseason to this point has been the acquisition of first baseman Willson Contreras. Boston struck a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals to acquire Contreras for RHP Hunter Dobbins and two prospects. He is now under team control with the Red Sox through the 2028 season.
The acquisition of Contreras fills a couple of needs for the Red Sox: a powerful right-handed bat and a consistent first baseman. Of course, Boston does have a first baseman in Triston Casas, though he’s been forgotten by much of the fanbase the last few years as he’s dealt with injury troubles.
The most recent injury was in early May last season, when he ruptured his left patellar tendon, ending his 2025 season quickly. He’s only played 91 games in the last two seasons.
Casas Makes Surprising Statement About Contreras
When a player is seemingly replaced by someone else via free agency or trade, their reactions are typically contentious. For the typically enigmatic Casas, the move didn’t seem to shock him.
“I wasn’t surprised, to answer the question,” Casas said. “The first baseman position for this team has lacked over the last couple years, the production from that spot. As of right now, the way that is is, he’s a better player than me and has been for his entire career.
To upgrade at a position that has been deficient for the last two years is exactly what the team needed. Hopefully, I can come back to the player I was a couple years ago and know what I can be and contribute to the team whatever fashion and at whatever position they see fit for me.”
Contreras certainly has the track record to back up Casas’ statement. In his 10 MLB seasons, he’s racked up 172 home runs and has a career WAR of 29.2. Casas hasn’t been bad at first base, but Contreras showed signs of excellence at the position despite his limited time playing it.
Casas’ Confidence Remains Unwavering
Casas has been known for his unwavering confidence throughout his career, along with his odd gameday superstitions. This move seems to be nothing more than a bump in the road for the soon to be 26-year-old.
“I definitely believe in my abilities and think they’re up there with the best in the game,” Casas. “I’ve just got to be on the field, stay healthy and get that sample size.
Red Sox Triston Casas Makes Surprising Remarks About Willson Contreras Signing