Boston Red Sox: Five things we learned from Spring Training 2021

Versatility is key for the Red Sox

Versatility is going to be one of the primary themes of this season.  Every position player they added this offseason has the ability to play multiple positions.

Kike Hernandez should see the bulk of the playing time at second base but he will also be called on to play some center field. Alex Verdugo will be the primary center fielder but the Red Sox value his defense in Fenway’s challenging right field so don’t be surprised if he shifts over to that spot for home games with Hernandez filling in at center. Hernandez has some experience at every position except for catcher so he could move around based on the team’s needs.

Marwin Gonzalez is another player who can move around virtually anywhere on the field, providing manager Alex Cora with plenty of flexibility. He might not be a part of the team’s projected everyday lineup but he should be the first bat off the bench and will get his fair share of starts to spell the regulars in the lineup. We know Gonzalez is a favorite of Cora so he’ll get his chances as long as he’s producing.

Christian Arroyo beat out Michael Chavis for the final bench spot. The fact that he was out of minor league options while Chavis has some remaining was a significant factor in that decision but Arroyo also provides more versatility with experience at most infield positions.

We saw the Red Sox shuffle their outfield alignment throughout spring training. Franchy Cordero and Hunter Renfroe are expected to start in left and right field respectively but they are both capable of handling either corner. We could even see them fill in at center field on occasion.

The option to use so many of these players at multiple positions will be invaluable to Cora. It allows him to ensure his regular starters can get a breather once in a while knowing he has a reliable option to turn to regardless of which position needs filling. Bench players who can handle multiple positions will find an easier path to playing time, ensuring they stay sharp.

The Red Sox didn’t go shopping for one of the big bats on the market this winter but they added several players who can help this team in a variety of ways, adding enviable depth and tremendous flexibility.