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Red Sox: Predicting the 2018 Opening Day 25-man roster

By Sean Penney

BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 26: Members of the Boston Red Sox stand for the national anthem before their game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park on September 26, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 26: Members of the Boston Red Sox stand for the national anthem before their game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park on September 26, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /
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BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 08: Andrew Benintendi #16, Mookie Betts #50 and Jackie Bradley Jr. #19 of the Boston Red Sox celebrate defeating the Houston Astros 10-3 in game three of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park on October 8, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON, MA – OCTOBER 08: Andrew Benintendi #16, Mookie Betts #50 and Jackie Bradley Jr. #19 of the Boston Red Sox celebrate defeating the Houston Astros 10-3 in game three of the American League Division Series at Fenway Park on October 8, 2017 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Outfielders

Mookie Betts, Jackie Bradley, Andrew Benintendi, J.D. Martinez

Boston’s starting trio is about as good as it gets in the majors, at least from a defensive standpoint. They also have a high ceiling offensively. Betts is already a star, Benny is emerging into one and JBJ has shown the ability to put together a hot streak at the plate.

Martinez will primarily slot in as the designated hitter but is expected to see some time in the outfield. We can count him as the fourth outfielder despite that he’ll be in the lineup most days regardless. Except Bradley to get some time off against lefties, with Martinez taking over in right field and Betts sliding over to center. Martinez could also cover left if Benintendi needs a breather.

Swihart is capable of covering a corner outfield spot in addition to his role as an infielder and third catcher. If the Red Sox manage to squeeze Holt on the roster then he can provide some additional outfield depth as well.

Boston’s farm system lacks major league-ready outfield talent but the big league club is well stocked. Barring a rash of injuries, they appear to be in great shape.

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