When the Boston Red Sox signed Alex Bregman late in the offseason, many assumed he would take over as the team’s regular second baseman. Bregman had expressed openness to playing the position, and with Rafael Devers already established at third base, it seemed like a natural fit. When Devers made it clear early in spring training that he would not switch positions, it further reinforced the idea that Bregman would handle second base. However, the way spring training has unfolded suggests a different plan.
So far, Bregman has played exclusively at third base in his three spring training appearances and has been seen fielding ground balls there far more often than at second base. If the Red Sox intended for him to play second, wouldn’t they be giving him more reps there?
This could indicate that the Red Sox are preparing to use Bregman at third base regardless of Devers’ preference. When asked about Bregman’s timeline for playing second, manager Alex Cora simply said, “At one point,” according to Chad Jennings of The Athletic.
While Bregman is a talented player, his experience at second base is minimal, with just nine MLB appearances and 32 innings at the position over his nine-year career. He last played second base in 2018 and hasn’t played anywhere but third base since 2019. If the team truly wanted him to transition to second, they would likely be giving him more opportunities in spring training games.
This situation presents a dilemma, as the Red Sox risk upsetting Devers, one of their franchise cornerstones. However, Bregman’s defensive ability at third base—where he won a Gold Glove last season—makes him a better fit there compared to Devers, who is widely considered a poor defender at the position. Moving Devers to DH while using Bregman at third and a combination of Kristian Campbell, Vaughn Grissom, or David Hamilton at second could give the team its best lineup for success.
Devers has yet to play in Grapefruit League games due to a shoulder issue, so it’s possible Bregman could still see time at second once Devers returns. However, based on how spring training has played out so far, Bregman appears to be locked in as a third baseman—contrary to initial expectations.
Red Sox appear eager to give third base spot to Alex Bregman, whether Rafael Devers wants that or not
When asked about when Alex Bregman would get playing time at second base, Red Sox manager Alex Cora simply responded, “At one point,” according to Chad Jennings of The Athletic.
When the Red Sox signed Bregman late in the offseason, it seemed logical that he would become their primary second baseman. He had expressed a willingness to play the position, and with Rafael Devers already locked in at third base, it appeared to be a natural fit. When Devers made it clear early in spring training that he had no plans to switch positions, it reinforced the belief that Bregman would handle second base. However, the way spring training has unfolded tells a different story.
Bregman has played three spring training games so far—all at third base. He has also been spotted fielding ground balls at third much more frequently than at second. If the plan was for him to play second base, why does he appear to be preparing for third?
The answer may be that the Red Sox intend to keep him at third base, regardless of Devers’ preference.
While Bregman has the ability to play second if needed, he has minimal experience there—just nine MLB appearances (two starts) and 32 innings at the position in his nine-year career. He last played second base in 2018 and has exclusively played third since 2019. If the Red Sox truly intended for him to take on a regular role at second, they would likely be giving him more reps in spring training games. The lack of playing time at second suggests that isn’t the current plan.
Although moving Devers from third base could cause tension, it’s easy to see why the Red Sox might prefer Bregman at the hot corner. Bregman is coming off a Gold Glove-winning season, while Devers is considered one of the worst defensive third basemen in baseball. While Devers is a strong hitter, his defensive struggles make him a better fit at designated hitter.
A potential solution for the Red Sox would be to keep Bregman at third, move Devers to DH, and use a combination of Kristian Campbell, Vaughn Grissom, or David Hamilton at second base. This might not sit well with Devers, but it could put the team in the best position to succeed—especially if Campbell, a top prospect, proves he’s ready for the majors.
Devers has yet to appear in Grapefruit League action due to a shoulder issue. Once he returns, Bregman could see time at second base, but based on his current usage, that seems unlikely. Everything about Bregman’s approach this spring suggests he is being prepared as a third baseman, which contradicts initial expectations.
