Kristian Campbell secured a spot on the Red Sox Opening Day roster after an outstanding spring training that left no doubt he belonged in the majors.
“It’s a dream come true,” said Campbell, Boston’s No. 2 prospect. “It’s definitely something I’ve worked for my whole life.”
Campbell recalled a conversation with manager Alex Cora, who asked him about Georgia Tech players who had reached the majors.
“He told me my name would be added to that list,” Campbell said.
Throughout spring training, questions surrounded Boston’s infield, particularly at second and third base. The Red Sox acquired Vaughn Grissom in the Chris Sale trade, but lingering hamstring issues limited him to Triple-A for most of 2024. David Hamilton and top prospect Marcelo Mayer were also contenders for infield spots.
Campbell quickly made an impression, proving he had a real shot at becoming the team’s Opening Day second baseman. Then Boston signed Alex Bregman, an experienced infielder. However, Campbell’s strong performance allowed the Red Sox to shift Bregman to third base, move Rafael Devers to designated hitter, and keep Campbell in the lineup.
On March 20, Grissom was optioned to Worcester, followed by Mayer, clearing the way for Campbell despite his struggles at the plate. He entered Sunday’s finale with a .174/.304/.283 slash line but delivered a promising performance. He robbed Jonny DeLuca of a base hit with a diving grab and launched his first big league home run of the spring.
“He’s hitting the ball hard and not chasing,” Cora said before Sunday’s game. “He’s a good hitter, man. Last year, we knew (Ceddanne) Rafaela would chase pitches and struggle with fastballs. This year, Kristian was chasing pitches, and now he’s not.”
The Red Sox have been patient with Campbell’s development and will continue to support his growth. At the start of spring training, making the roster seemed like a long shot. But when Boston opens its season Thursday against the Texas Rangers, Campbell will be in the lineup, ready to prove he belongs.
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