Red Sox News: J.D. Martinez wanted to retire with Boston, leadoff spot dilemma, more
The Boston Red Sox got their second tie of 2023 spring training as their scrimmage with the defending World Champion Houston Astros ended in a 4-4 draw. Raimel Tapia had a pair of hits out of the leadoff spot including a double while Wyatt Mills threw two scoreless innings with three strikeouts.
The big news of the day came from another somewhat disgruntled former Red Sox player. J.D. Martinez understood that his offensive dip last season and his age made it where general manager Chaim Bloom felt as though they needed to move on, but Martinez confirmed that his first choice would have been to retire with Boston.
More Red Sox News
There has been a lot of discussion regarding who will be leading off for the Red Sox in 2023, given manager Alex Cora's desire to keep Devers in the two spot and wanting to alternate hitter handedness. In that spirit, we put forth some arguments that Kiké Hernández should be considered for the job.
While the Red Sox brought in Adam Duvall to give Boston a veteran bat with upside to play in the outfield, Jarren Duran is making some noise down in spring training. While Duvall has some pretty clear edges on the path to a starting spot in the outfield, especially in Boston's lefty heavy lineup, Duran is making things more interesting with his raw talent and retooled approach at the plate.
We also had a look at how the Red Sox's lack of speed could be a problem for them in 2023, especially given that Xander Bogaerts left in free agency and Trevor Story is hurt. Finally, we highlighted Boston prospect Mikey Romero who, despite being quite young, is a guy that Boston fans should be very excited about in the years to come.
MLB News
Never doubt MLB's willingness to try to keep wages suppressed at every available opportunity. As reported yesterday, the league is trying to get minor league players exempted from the state of Florida's minimum wage laws. Fortunately, MLBPA now represents minor leaguers and we should start to see gains for them in the coming years.
The Royals signed a familiar face yesterday as they brought in Jackie Bradley Jr. on a minor league deal. Jackie's offense has always been inconsistent, but it fell off the face of the Earth after he signed with the Brewers after the 2020 season and he has struggled ever since. Hopefully he can figure things out with Kansas City.