New Developments in Red Sox Spring Training
FORT MYERS, Fla. — The Red Sox Spring Training intrigued fans on Wednesday as Marcelo Mayer, widely regarded as the team’s future shortstop, made his debut at second base.
Mayer Adjusts Position
With Trevor Story back to full health, Mayer faces limited opportunities at shortstop. Until recently, he had been exclusively training for shortstop and third base, which aligns with his status as Boston’s No. 3 prospect and No. 12 overall by MLB Pipeline.
Performance in the Field
Before his first appearance at second base, Mayer was informed of the change prior to Tuesday’s game against the Yankees, where he played four innings. In his first start against the Tigers, he smoothly handled his only chance and even hit an RBI triple in his opening at-bat.
Embracing Change
Mayer is welcoming this rapid learning experience. “I think I’m always ready for anything, especially as a guy who’s not established in the league at a position,” he stated, emphasizing the need for adaptability. He added, “All I can do is go out there and play hard and perform my best.”
Possible Opening Day Role
While it may be improbable for Mayer to be the starting second baseman on Opening Day, manager Alex Cora hasn’t completely dismissed the possibility. “Like I said, everybody has a shot,” Cora remarked.
Impressive Spring Performance
Despite being sidelined by injuries in the last two seasons, Mayer’s current performance has impressed. He is batting .355 (11-for-31) with three extra-base hits, 10 RBIs, and a remarkable 1.025 OPS over 16 Grapefruit League games. “He’s not just a prospect; he’s a baseball player,” Cora praised.
Future Outlook
Mayer believes that his versatility in playing multiple positions could expedite his journey to the majors. “It’s about getting at-bats right now, getting ready for the season,” he stated. Despite the challenges of switching positions, Mayer feels confident in adapting quickly, showcasing his athleticism and defensive skills. “I feel ready,” Mayer concluded about potentially making the jump to the majors. “I’m in a good spot mentally and physically.”
