Alex Cora, the Red Sox manager, has a decision to make regarding the team's batting order for the 2026 season. While he has already determined that Willson Contreras will bat cleanup, the leadoff spot remains a mystery. Cora admits that he doesn't have a clear answer yet, as the roster is still taking shape. He mentions that there will be battles for certain positions, which will influence the final lineup. This uncertainty is a rare occurrence for Cora, who typically has a better idea of the lineup by this stage of the season.
Contreras, a newly acquired player, is expected to be the everyday first baseman and will bring a lot to the team with his ability to hit the ball hard and drive it to right-center. However, the leadoff spot is still up for grabs, with both Roman Anthony and Jarren Duran in the running. Cora acknowledges that he doesn't see anyone else on the current roster as a suitable leadoff candidate.
Cora's focus is on creating a balanced lineup with an alternating pattern of lefty and righty hitters. Despite the team's strong left-handed lineup, Cora believes that balance is key. He mentions that the Red Sox scored well last year with a left-handed lineup, finishing fifth in the AL in runs scored. The team's strategy will involve trades, free agency, or developing players to achieve this balance.
The Red Sox's lack of free agent signings has been a topic of discussion, with the team being the only one without a new contract. This has led to contractual commitments close to $500M. The MLB has proposed a free agent signing deadline, which Sam Kennedy believes is worth exploring. The team has also elected three World Series champions into the 2026 Hall of Fame class and signed a non-roster free agent, adding a right-handed player with experience in the Astros' bullpen.
