Spring training is underway for the Boston Red Sox, and with the team's uber-talented lineup, few roster spots are up for grabs.
There are multiple position battles occurring across the Red Sox's roster this spring, and manager Alex Cora has said they'll take the best 26 players to open the season in Arlington, TX on March 27. Everyone from prospects to veterans is playing for their roster spot this year, and a few Sox are already sticking out above the others in their position.
With that in mind, here are four players who have gotten off to a much-needed hot start.
4 Red Sox who desperately needed a hot start to spring training (and got one)
Luis Guerrero
Luis Guerrero, a top prospect, made his major league debut with the Red Sox last season. In a limited sample size, the flamethrowing reliever got off to a hot start, striking out nine batters in 10 innings while allowing just six hits and two walks.
While some had the right-hander making the team out of camp, it was clear that he needed a good spring to solidify his spot in the bullpen. While it is still early, the reliever has gotten off to a great start, allowing just two total batters (one walk and one hit) and striking out six in three innings of work.
Guerrero has certainly turned heads, but with just three innings of work, there are still questions about his MLB-readiness, especially regarding his command issues. Last season, Guerrero had a concerning 5.5 walks per nine innings in 54.1 innings with Worcester.
Roman Anthony
Roman Anthony, Boston's top prospect, was named a dark-horse candidate for making the Opening Day roster, but he's also had a very productive start to Grapefruit League action. In 13 at-bats, Anthony has put together a slash line of .308/.500/.385 with a .885 OPS and four RBI. While the Red Sox have a crowded outfield, if Anthony continues to produce at this level, he has a shot at being with the team in Arlington against the Texas Rangers.
The hype surrounding Anthony is warranted, but with just 35 games in AAA last year, the team may have him start in Worcester and ease him into major league play.
Abraham Toro
Abraham Toro signed with the Red Sox on a minor-league deal in late January, and judging by his start, he could grab a roster spot. In 13 plate appearances, Toro slashed .308/.357/.615 with a .973 OPS to go along with a home run and four RBI.
Time will tell if Toro makes the team, as with other, more established bench options like David Hamilton and Romy González, he may be the odd man out. However, if Toro can carry his momentum, he may be considered for infield depth.
Trayce Thompson
Trayce Thompson, the brother of NBA star Klay Thompson, is another minor-league signing for the Red Sox. Thompson has been a journeyman for most of his career, but enjoyed his best season with the Dodgers in 2022. In 239 at-bats, he sported a 149 OPS+ and a wRC+ of 142, along with 13 homers and 39 RBI.
Thompson has seemingly found his bat again this spring. In 13 at-bats, he has hit two home runs and mashed a .733 SLG and 1.086 OPS, opening a potential door to a roster spot.
While Boston's outfield, three of Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela, and Wilyer Abreu, is set, Thompson's bat could keep him on the roster as a potential platoon option in the outfield. Even with Anthony as competition, Boston could opt for Thompson, given his years of big league experience.