The Boston Red Sox's outlook at first base has been murky since Triston Casas suffered a season-ending knee injury earlier this month. The likes of Nick Sogard and Abraham Toro have filled in for Casas amid his absence; however, neither first baseman has produced starter-quality results.
With none of their experienced first-base options working, it might be time for the Red Sox to get creative about finding Casas' replacement. Although some of manager Alex Cora's veterans might be unwilling to try a new position, one of the club's youngsters just proved that he's open to lending a hand at first base.
Red Sox Trying Out Kristian Campbell at 1B During Friday's Practice
Former top prospect Kristian Campbell hasn't wasted any time becoming a Red Sox fan favorite during his rookie campaign. The ex-2023 fourth-rounder has already shown he'll do whatever it takes to help Boston win, which now includes trying his hand at first-base duties.
On Friday, MLB.com's Ian Browne reported that Campbell was "doing some 1B drill work" during practice. Whether or not this results in legitimate first-base playing time remains to be seen, but it's clear the Red Sox are starting to get creative with their search for a starting first baseman.
Through his first 38 MLB appearances, Campbell has spent most of his time at second base with the occasional outfield appearances mixed in between. The Chattanooga, Tenn. native has logged 290 1/3 innings as a second baseman, while also spending 38 frames in centerfield and another dozen on the outfield's left side.
Although he's yet to play first base, Campbell's willingness to be versatile could make him a suitable Casas fill-in. After all, he played every position except first base, catcher, and pitcher since joining the Red Sox organization in 2023, so it isn't unfathomable to imagine his potentially succeeding at first base.
It'd be great if Campbell could have as much success at first as he has in the batter's box this season. The 22-year-old phenom is slashing .246/.337/.408 with five home runs, 15 RBIs, 20 walks, and a pair of stolen bases through his first 142 at-bats. While his performance has trailed off as the season rolls on, an opportunity to step up when his club needs him might reignite his bat.
The Red Sox signed Campbell to an eight-year, $60 million extension shortly after the season began. He's already proven to be worth every penny so far, and that'll be even truer if he successfully runs away with the starting first base job.