Boston Red Sox fans have plenty to be excited about this spring training, with new additions like Garrett Crochet, Walker Buehler, and Alex Bregman joining the team. But the buzz around the Red Sox’s “Big Three” prospects—Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell, and Marcelo Mayer—has been just as electrifying. As Opening Day approaches, the question on everyone’s mind is: where will these top prospects begin the 2025 season?
Despite an impressive spring training, Marcelo Mayer’s chances of making the Opening Day roster have always been slim. The highly-touted shortstop has yet to play in Triple-A, and the Red Sox are expected to give him time there before calling him up to the majors. Meanwhile, Roman Anthony and Kristian Campbell have already made waves in Worcester, posting stellar slash lines of .344/.463/.519 and .286/.412/.486, respectively. However, a recent comment from manager Alex Cora suggests they might also start the season in the minors.
Cora emphasized that playing time and player development are crucial, but winning games takes priority. “It’s fair to say that none of the Big Three will make the Opening Day roster without an everyday role,” Cora said, as reported by Ian Browne of MLB.com. With Trevor Story locked in as the everyday shortstop and a crowded outfield featuring Jarren Duran, Ceddanne Rafaela, Wilyer Abreu, Rob Refsnyder, and Masataka Yoshida, Anthony and Mayer don’t currently have a clear path to regular playing time in Boston.
Of the trio, Kristian Campbell might have the best shot at cracking the Opening Day roster. He appeared at second base in a March 11 spring training game alongside the likely big-league lineup, sparking speculation about his role. However, reports indicate that Campbell’s defense may not yet be major-league-ready, and the Red Sox have other infield options like Nick Sogard and David Hamilton, who bring more MLB experience.
Complicating matters is Yoshida’s health. The outfielder is recovering from labrum surgery and hasn’t thrown at full effort this spring. If Yoshida starts the season on the injured list, it could shift Rafael Devers to designated hitter and Alex Bregman to third base, potentially opening a spot for Campbell. However, Bregman hasn’t played second base in game action this spring, making such a move unlikely.
While Cora’s comments suggest the Big Three may begin the season in Worcester, their time in the majors is undoubtedly on the horizon. Whether it’s later this season or beyond, Red Sox fans can look forward to seeing Anthony, Campbell, and Mayer take the field together at Fenway Park, ready to make their mark on the big stage.
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