Even before the addition of Alex Bregman complicated the picture, second base was already shaping up to be the most intriguing position battle for the Red Sox this spring.
Much of the attention has been on top prospect Kristian Campbell (ranked No. 7 in MLB Pipeline’s Top 100) as a potential Opening Day roster candidate with a strong spring. However, David Hamilton and Vaughn Grissom remain in the mix. Grissom was originally expected to be Boston’s starting second baseman last year, but injuries set him back before spring training even began, giving Hamilton more opportunities at the position during the season.
Red Sox beat writer Ian Browne of MLB.com recently noted that amid the buzz surrounding Bregman and Campbell, Grissom has become somewhat of a “forgotten man.” However, he could be a dark horse to not only make the 2025 Opening Day roster but also win the starting second base job.
“After a disappointing first season in Boston due to multiple leg injuries that sidelined him for long stretches and affected his performance when he did play, Grissom is fully healthy this spring,” Browne wrote. “Not only that, but he’s added 12 pounds and increased his bat speed, which was evident during live batting practice when he lined a 100 mph pitch from Aroldis Chapman into right field for a hit. Though he still has options, Grissom could earn a spot on the roster as either the starting second baseman or a utility player.”
Red Sox insider goes against the grain with Opening Day second base prediction
Grissom started at second base in the Red Sox’s spring training opener against the Rays on Saturday, going 0-for-3 at the plate. However, Browne noted that he appeared “noticeably stronger” compared to his injury-riddled 2024 season. Meanwhile, Campbell entered off the bench, finishing 0-for-1 with a walk and making a highlight-reel diving catch on a line drive in the seventh inning.
Of course, this entire competition could become irrelevant if the Red Sox decide to keep Rafael Devers at third base and shift Bregman to second. Until an official decision is made, though, the battle for second base remains one of the top storylines to watch in Red Sox camp.