It was a rather slow and quiet offseason for the Boston Red Sox. There could be several reasons for that, but maybe the biggest was that they were waiting for Alex Bregman’s decision. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow waited for his 2025 third baseman to decide on where he’s going to play in 2026.
In January, Breslow got the news that he wasn’t prepared for. Bregman agreed to a deal with the Chicago Cubs after just one year in Boston. After that, Breslow pivoted to Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Ranger Suárez, which didn’t solve the need for a third baseman. Breslow didn’t address the infield openings until this week.
Boston acquired infielder Caleb Durbin from the Milwaukee Brewers, then signed veteran utility infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa to a free agent contract. They are going to be in a battle with some young Red Sox infielders, including youngster Marcelo Mayer. On Wednesday, Breslow spoke about Mayer and his chances of making an impact in Boston out of spring training.
Boston Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow Speaks on Youngster Marcelo Mayer’s Opportunity in 2026
Breslow met with the media and discussed Mayer, who was the fourth overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft. He has been the talk of the Red Sox prospect pool, along with Roman Anthony, and it appears that he is primed for a big role in 2026 in Boston.
“He has a chance to come into camp and compete and show us what he’s capable of doing,” Breslow said. “We’ve had a lot of excitement around him for a long time, and we’re looking forward for that to come out in his play.”
Third base is the position that he’ll likely have a chance to win the starting job at. However, Mayer comes with health issues. He has never been healthy enough to play in 100 games in a season. Aside from third base, Mayer could also see some time at second base. Breslow said they’ll do what’s best for the team.
“We’ll work backwards from what is best for the team and what is best for each individual, and you hope those things overlap, but Marcelo has also been pretty outspoken about his willingness to do whatever is needed, whatever is best for the team,” Breslow said. “If that’s playing one position, if that’s moving around, if that’s learning a new position, I think he’s looking for a way to contribute.”
Red Sox Need Marcelo Mayer to Stay Healthy in 2026
It is easy to see a path where Mayer is a key part of Boston in 2026 for manager Alex Cora. However, again, health is a concern. To prepare for that, Mayer has prepared his body for it over the offseason.
“It was one of the main goals I set for myself going into the offseason. I weighed in at 218 (pounds) right now, which is by far the heaviest I’ve ever weighed in my life,” Mayer said, adding that he finished last season at 208. “I feel great, stronger and faster than ever, so I feel like my body is in a really good spot.”
Injuries are going to happen. Mayer is one reason why Breslow didn’t sign Eugenio Suárez. He acquired Durbin, but Mayer is entering spring training with a big opportunity in front of him. Now is the chance to seize that opportunity.
Red Sox Prospect Has Chance To Seize Golden Opportunity