The key to the Red Sox’s 2018 World Series victory was simple. A young, deep core of players who provided an offensive and defensive jolt daily. This core was full of familiar faces and fan favorites.
Red Sox Superstar Prospect Names Breakout Candidate
To begin with, the outfield once featured young standout Andrew Benintendi (23), elite defensive center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. (28), and 2018 American League MVP Mookie Betts (25).
Meanwhile, the infield was anchored by rising star shortstop Xander Bogaerts (25) and third baseman Rafael Devers (21), who was competing in his first full MLB season.
Fast forward to 2025, and a similar pattern appears to be unfolding.
The Red Sox have found their new ace in 25-year-old Garrett Crochet, acquired in December. Additionally, young arms Brayan Bello (25) and Kutter Crawford (28) return to the rotation behind him.
On offense, Boston’s lineup will be among the youngest in the league, with Triston Casas (25), Rafael (24), Wilyer Abreu (25), Jarren Duran (28), and Rafael Devers (28) occupying five of the nine starting spots.
And there’s even more promise ahead. The Red Sox currently boast MLB’s top-ranked farm system, with their three highest-rated prospects all landing in the league’s Top 15. One standout, Kristian Campbell, was recently named CBS Sports’ “Breakout Candidate of the Year” by R.J. Anderson, with his MLB debut expected in 2025.
Who is Kristian Campbell
In 2023, the Red Sox selected Campbell out of Georgia Tech in the fourth round. Originally drafted as an outfielder known for his impressive range and well-rounded offensive skill set, he has since carved out a larger role in the infield during his time in the minors.
At first, Campbell was recognized for his speed and agility, excelling at tracking down balls and stealing bases. However, prior to the 2024 season, he made key adjustments to his swing, which immediately propelled him into top-prospect status.
Defensively, Campbell is exceptional, and his speed is undeniable—evidenced by his 21 stolen bases in just 40 games last season. Now, with his refined approach at the plate, he has also developed into a legitimate power hitter at the MLB level. Over two full minor league seasons, he has posted an impressive .329 batting average, .439 on-base percentage, and a .985 OPS.
Campbell’s rapid development has turned him into a dynamic, well-rounded prospect. He offers versatility in both the infield and outfield, can steal bases, and has proven himself as a run producer—exactly the type of player the Red Sox need to integrate into their young core in 2025. His versatility, speed, and relentless style of play have even drawn comparisons to a young Mookie Betts.
After hitting just one home run in 2023, Campbell exploded for 20 homers last season across High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A. He also drove in 77 runs in 40 games, a massive jump from the five RBIs he recorded in his first season.
How Campbell Fits into the 2025 Red Sox’s Lineup
No matter where he plays, Campbell will make an impact both offensively and defensively. In the Red Sox’s first Spring Training game, he showcased his defensive skills with an impressive grab at second base—a clear reminder that he’s simply a high-level player.
Second base is likely where he’ll see the most action in 2025, but Campbell has already shown a willingness to adapt in order to help the team. While newly acquired star Alex Bregman is capable of playing second, his Gold Glove-caliber defense is best utilized at third base. Meanwhile, Rafael Devers is expected to take on more of a designated hitter role, creating an opening at second.
Competition is already underway in Spring Training, but at this point, the job at second base is essentially Campbell’s to lose.
By mid-April, don’t just expect to see “Kristian Campbell” in the Red Sox’s everyday lineup—expect him to be a key contributor on both sides of the ball.
